HONORING OUR PAST. INSPIRING OUR FUTURE.

INVEST IN THE HEART OF OUR HERITAGE — YOUR SUPPORT BUILDS MORE THAN A CENTER, IT BUILDS COMMUNITY.

Hello to the Irish American Heritage Center Community,

The Irish American Heritage Center (IAHC) was founded by volunteers who transformed a long-vacant 1924 school into one of the nation’s largest homes for Irish culture. Forty years on, the Center remains a welcoming place for music, language, literature, dance, and community—made possible by the dedication of our members, donors, and friends.

2025/2026 ANNUAL APPEAL

This year’s appeal sustains our programs and operations and fuels improvements that will make the IAHC even more vibrant and accessible. Our goal is $100,000. With your help, we will:

Create an Outdoor Patio & Pub Area – a warm, social space for weekly music and community
gatherings.
Upgrade Public Spaces – brighten entrances (main, Fifth Province, and theatre side), enhance
safety and accessibility, refresh interiors floor-by-floor, and introduce a Coffee Bar & Café.
Preserve and Improve Our Historic Home – tuckpointing, façade care, elevator and hardwood
floor restorations, and continued room renovations throughout our 86,000 sq. ft. building.
Expand Exhibits & Cultural Displays – bringing Ireland’s stories and artistry to life for every
visitor.

A MESSAGE FROM IAHC LEADERSHIP

Our board, staff, and volunteers deliver year-round concerts, theatre, classes, festivals, and community events. With new additions Eileen Vesey and Madison Casey alongside PJ O’Connor, Catherine Kelly, and Marty Quirk, we’re building on a proud legacy—“a beautiful location for the Irish people,” as Galway Mayor Mike Cubbard said. Maintaining a 100-year-old home while growing programs requires ongoing support—your gifts keep the doors open and the culture alive.

HOW TO GIVE

Every gift—large or small—moves the thermometer forward and strengthens this beloved Center.

Online: irish-american.org
In Person: Office during open hours
On-Site QR Codes: Posted throughout the building

GRATITUDE

Thank you for your trust, your time, and your loyalty. Your support helps us support, celebrate, and
sustain Irish culture in Chicago—for today’s community and the generations to come.

Go raibh míle maith agat,
Thomas “Tom” Herion
President, Board of Directors, Irish American Heritage Center