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Your Later Life 2024

Creating impact and inspiring change by embracing philanthropy in retirement

Storytelling image of a multiethnic senior couple in love - Elderly married couple dating outdoors, love emotions and feelings
Storytelling image of a multiethnic senior couple in love - Elderly married couple dating outdoors, love emotions and feelings
iStock / Getty Images Plus / Diamond Dogs

Hazel Hennessy

Head of Communications and Relationships, Philanthropy Ireland

Retirement allows us to reflect on life and consider how we can give back to the communities that have shaped us. For those who can give back, philanthropy presents a fulfilling way to make a lasting impact.


At Philanthropy Ireland, our mission is to create a vibrant culture of philanthropy and to highlight the transformative impact that strategic giving can have on communities in Ireland and globally.

The scope of philanthropy in Ireland

Philanthropy encompasses a broad spectrum of activities that can align with your passions and values. Whether it’s supporting educational initiatives, contributing to healthcare advancements or fostering community development, your involvement can take many forms. There are many different giving vehicles in Ireland that can match the needs of philanthropists and their families.

Mechanisms to get involved in structured and strategic giving

Many of the members of Philanthropy Ireland offer structured giving programmes, donor advised funds, match funding and other giving mechanisms that can help you see the direct impact of your donations while removing the administrative burdens and providing reassurance that your funding is reaching the social issues close to your heart.

Options include bequests in your will, naming a charity as a life insurance beneficiary or establishing an endowment.

For those who have larger amounts to invest in philanthropy, setting up a charitable trust or foundation can provide a more hands-on approach, allowing you to manage your giving and involve your family in philanthropic efforts.

Another way to create meaningful impact is to consider incorporating philanthropy into your estate planning. Legacy giving allows you to support your chosen causes beyond your lifetime, ensuring that your philanthropic vision endures. Options include bequests in your will, naming a charity as a life insurance beneficiary or establishing an endowment.

Opportunity and potential to benefit future generations

Retirement is a time of newfound freedom and opportunity for many. By embracing philanthropy, you can create a lasting legacy and positively impact the lives of others, including your own family by involving them in your philanthropy journey. At Philanthropy Ireland, we encourage you to explore these avenues and embark on this rewarding journey. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.

Discover more about Ireland’s Philanthropy Community by visiting philanthropy.ie including our interactive map that showcases the different examples of philanthropy in communities across Ireland and how everyday philanthropists are creating real and lasting change.

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