Five Minute Focus On: Sarah Edmonds, Irish Youth Foundation
Tell us about yourself
My name is Sarah Edmonds and I am Fundraising & Events Manager with the Irish Youth Foundation. I’ve been working with the IYF since May this year, having previously worked in hotels for almost 7 years.
Tell us about Irish Youth Foundation
The Irish Youth Foundation exists to make a positive change to the lives of disadvantaged and at risk children and young people in Ireland. Whenever possible the IYF seeks to address the underlying causes of poverty, educational disadvantage, homelessness and social exclusion experienced by children and young people. Due to a wide range of social factors many children are denied their most basic rights – the right to a decent education, the right to be supported by caring adults and the right to a way of life that is free of fear and discrimination. The groups we support are innovative “grassroots” projects run by passionate professionals who understand young people and care about them.
What is your role in IYF?
My role is Fundraising & Events Manager, so I am responsible for the planning and execution of all campaigns and events for the organisation.
Tell us something about IYF we may not know
In 2016, the IYF supported 127 projects throughout Ireland, directly impacting 5,043 children.
What’s next for IYF?
The next big thing for the IYF is the Excellence in Sport Awards, which is taking place on Monday 4th December in the Clayton Hotel on Burlington Road. This is a very special night which provides a unique opportunity for the best in Irish business and sport to come together to honour the outstanding sporting achievements of the past year, acknowledge some of the true legends of Irish sport, and to meet the future stars.
What do you think is the future of your work?
I think connection and engagement are the future of this work. Based on my experience, it is crucial to match a company who want to give back to their local community with a charity whose mission matches the company values. By ensuring a company is working with a charity they have a connection with, it is possible to foster long term relationships and ensure greater outcomes for both the charity and the corporate body.
What do you like about being a Glandore Member?
The Glandore team! Everyone on the team is so friendly, kind and supportive. They are available to answer questions, help if support is needed, or just have a quick catch up chat while making coffee in the kitchen.
Glandore have been particularly supportive of the Irish Youth Foundation and sponsor our office space, so we are incredibly grateful to them for ensuring the IYF are in a position to support even more projects which are committed to providing a brighter future for disadvantaged children and young people in Ireland.
What do you like about living and working in Dublin?
I love the buzz of the city. There’s always something to do and somewhere new to eat, which I’m a big fan of!
Friday nights in or Friday nights out?
Ideally Saturday nights in, with Strictly……I’m getting old!