Today the Board and staff of the Irish American Partnership join the international community in mourning the loss of Chuck Feeney. Irish American businessman and philanthropist who gave all, and inspired so many to do the same. Chuck Feeney’s philanthropic organization, The Atlantic Philanthropies, made grants totaling more than $8 billion, much of it anonymously, to causes on five continents.

Chuck’s particular interest in Ireland was spent developing education, civil society, and peace initiatives on the island. The Irish American Partnership benefited greatly from his altruism, when in 1986 a newspaper article caught his eye, about the formation in Dublin of a body called the Irish American Partnership, inspired by Paddy Harte, a member of the Dail. Paddy Harte sought to harness the tremendous goodwill toward Ireland among successful Irish Americans to stimulate business and philanthropy. Chuck Feeney provided seed funding of $250,000 which covered multi-year operating expenses for the Partnership.

Mary Sugrue, Chief Executive of the Partnership said, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Chuck Feeney. His vision, generosity, and pioneering view of philanthropy have transformed countless lives on the island of Ireland. Though often used, never more true: ní bheidh a leithéad arís ann, we shall not see his like again.”

“We have long been inspired by Chuck’s example and largesse, focusing the might of our efforts investing in Ireland’s future through the educational institutions, scholarships, and schools that inspire our youth. He cared more about being effective at what he did so that he could improve the lives of others in meaningful ways. We are truly standing on the shoulders of giants,” said Partnership Chairman Michael Clune.

Chuck Feeney’s support of the Partnership has been transformative in setting our organization up for success, and impacting the young people of Ireland. We are forever grateful to him, and to his visionary Atlantic Philanthropies.