Impact Fund for Munster 2023
A future-focused and community-led fund shaping a more sustainable future for Munster.
The Impact Fund for Munster 2023 was created to support the sustainable development of Munster communities through funding social and/or environmental innovations which shape a more sustainable future for all. This future-focused and community-led fund supports nine organisations strengthening the capacities of Munster communities by providing innovative solutions in:
- Climate Action and Environmental Awareness: increasing sustainability, climate change education, increasing efforts in recycling, the circular economy, green production and waste awareness and/or
- Community Inclusion and Cohesion: generating a positive sense of belonging, particularly for marginalised and vulnerable groups
The fund is set up in partnership with a number of donors in the Munster region including Ei Electronics, Sunflower Charitable Foundation, Tomar Trust, the Parkes Family Limerick and the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Dormant Accounts Fund.
Awardees
Ballyhoura Rural Services
Doon Social Farm is part of Ballyhoura Rural Services CLG, whose main aim is to deal with rural isolation and loneliness. The farm itself is a haven for wellness and Nature, and is the setting for wellness programmes for children and adults alike. We work with schools and organisations who work with disadvantaged groups.
Common Knowledge Centre for Sustainable Living
The Common Ground Project brings communities of North Clare together to learn the skills needed to enhance biodiversity, regenerate the land, and improve environmental awareness to catalyse community climate action. The project engages established, new and marginalised communities to build an integrated and diverse network of people interested in connecting both with Munster’s natural heritage and with each other in a meaningful way.
Education for Sustainability
Education for Sustainability is a social enterprise that has become a trailblazer in climate literacy. Partnering with 261 schools nationwide, they offer an innovative 8-week course designed to empower students with the knowledge and skills needed to address environmental challenges. The pioneering teacher training program equips educators to become agents of change in their communities, fostering a culture of sustainability and resilience. This project will expand their reach in the Munster region.
The GAFF Limerick
The GAFF is an artist-led, community focused organisation producing work in multidisciplinary artforms, connecting artists with some of the most marginalised communities in Limerick. Their Paint Punch Project, combining painting and boxing, offers a dynamic solution to address pressing social issues within the Irish Traveller community, serving as an outlet for individuals to release pent-up emotions and stress. The project seeks to promote mental well-being and reduce stigma associated with seeking help.
Hometree
The Hometree Inclusion Project establishes and conserves permanent native woodland in Ireland, encouraging land regeneration and biodiversity through afforestation, restoration and education. The project works to ensure that nature connection is open to everyone in the community. Through education and supporting increased awareness and consideration of Ireland’s natural environment, they hope to nourish a new way of relating to nature conservation and rehabilitation.
International Community Dynamics
Citadel is a world music band of refugees and international protection applicants from many different countries, created by International Community Dynamics CLG. It aims to improve mental health and to build bridges with the Irish society using visual arts and world music from musicians’ the countries of origin. This project which will take the band to five direct provision centres in Munster, bringing the joy of music making to other residents. A travelling refugee arts exhibition will reach the new generation of online listeners by professionally recording our music in Ocean Studios, Skibbereen and spreading the joy on streaming platforms. The musicians will get the benefit of professional voice coaching and musicianship workshops.
Learning Hub Limerick
The Music Hub is a music education programme which offers a low cost introductory opportunity to learn music. Places are limited and priority is given to children from the surrounding area but the programme is open to everyone. As soon as students learn enough to be comfortable with their instrument the Learning Hub then help them to look for more formal tuition in one of the many music tuition institutions around Limerick.
Sample-Studios
Sample-Studios is one of Ireland’s largest artist studios; they launch, support and sustain creative careers and practices in Cork. The Studios of Sanctuary is a training and mentorship programme for artists and practitioners from an asylum seeker, refugee and/or migrant background. The programme provides affordable studios, facilities, training and development opportunities for artists.
Sanctuary Runners
Sanctuary Runners is a solidarity-through-sport initiative that uses running, jogging, walking and sea swimming to bring all in the community together including, and especially, people seeking international protection, refugees and other migrants. The Sanctuary Runners model addresses the challenges of achieving community integration and social cohesion, while also improving members’ physical and mental health. This project will support new and existing running and walking groups in the Munster region.
