Aubrey McCarthy, a businessman from Naas, Co. Kildare, has dedicated his life to combating marginalization experienced by those affected by violence, addiction, homelessness, and the fallout of war. Inspired by his childhood experiences of poverty, he founded Tiglin in 2008. This organisation has been a beacon of hope, providing housing for over 200 people, feeding 500 vulnerable individuals at its “Lighthouse Cafe” on Pearse Street, and running residential centres for those overcoming substance abuse. Additionally, Tiglin has extended its support to over 100 Ukrainian guests, offering employment, schooling, and recreational activities.

Hannah McCarthy’s impactful reporting on humanitarian issues in the Irish Times, Irish Examiner, the Journal, and various other publications has shed light on the experiences of vulnerable communities worldwide. Through her human-interest stories and investigative journalism, she has raised awareness and sparked meaningful dialogue on issues of displacement, migration, and social justice.

East Cork hero Adam King captured the nation’s hearts when the then seven-year-old appeared on the 2020 RTÉ Toy Show to promote his ‘Virtual Hug Campaign’. Thanks to his efforts this campaign went on to raise €6.5 million for children’s charities.

Since then, Adam has continued his advocacy work and started a charity with his family called Adam King Adventures. This charity has partnered with many organisations and has helped to raise awareness and funds for many causes in the past few years. Some examples from 2023 include participating in the Darkness into Light campaign, supporting World Down Syndrome Day and collaborating with Hi Healthy Ireland. Most recently Adam started a clothing line of sustainable children’s clothes in 2023 where the profits from the sale of these products are donated to charity.

Adam’s inspirational advocacy and philanthropy demonstrate the profound impact that individuals, regardless of age, can have on their communities. Through his charitable endeavours and commitment to helping others, he has become a symbol of hope and compassion for children and families in need.

Samaritans’ relentless commitment to providing emotional support 24/7 underscores their pivotal role in suicide prevention and mental health advocacy in Ireland.

Originally founded in the UK over 70 years ago by one man with one phone, the organisation has grown to more than 20,000 volunteers, including 1,500 volunteers in Ireland. Samaritans offers a lifeline to individuals in crisis, embodying the spirit of compassion and solidarity. Based in 16 locations nationwide, volunteers answer more than 1,000 calls for help every day – that is 400,000 calls for help each year; one call every 60 seconds.

Samaritans’ volunteers and staff continuously try to target those hard-to-reach groups most at risk of suicide through a variety of projects and campaigns including the Listener programme run through the Irish Prison Service, Emigrant Support, rural isolation and community projects.

ElectricAid’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and social justice reflects their dedication to improving communities’ lives worldwide. Through their employee-led charity and strategic partnerships, they have made a significant and lasting impact on global humanitarian efforts.

In 2023 alone ElectricAid awarded approx. €1.3 million to 85 projects including 3 major humanitarian responses.