A Culture of Giving – The Story of Donegal Giving

Donegal is a county known for its landscape and its people. With around 180,000 people living here, (according to the latest figures from Central Statistics Office CSO April 2025) it’s one of the most rural parts of Ireland. Towns and villages are scattered across a wide area, and in throughout the county neighbours depend on each other in the same way they did over generations. In the larger built up urban areas this connection may be lost but there is still a warmth and friendliness in Donegal that is to be celebrated and encouraged.

This closeness has shaped a strong culture of helping, sharing and looking out for one another. Donegal Giving was created to shine a light on that culture and to encourage more of it.

It didn’t start with a big budget or a setplan. It started with conversations, with people offering their time, their skills, and their ideas. When students like Chloe and Keira became interns, they helped shape Donegal Giving from an idea into something real. At the same time, they gained experience and confidence. That’s what giving looks like,both sides benefit.

The idea is simple. People in Donegal already give in many ways. Businesses can offer internships or share their knowledge. Retired people can pass on their wisdom or give a few hours a month to a local group. Community organisations can connect with others, sharing what they do and asking for support when needed.

Donegal Giving is not about money. It’s a not-for-profit project that belongs to everyone and no one. If support or funding ever comes in, it will go straight back into the initiative. What it really runs on is goodwill.

The future will depend on what people make of it. Already, we have a Donegal Giving pilot programme running in one school in Donegal for Transition Year students, more to follow in 2026. . Maybe others will see value in the initiative and secure funding to help it grow or maybe Donegal Giving will simply remain a space where people can share their stories and celebrate the kindness that already exists here.

Donegal’s motto is Mutuam Haebeatis Caritatem which means “Have Love For One Another” ! That is at the heart of Donegal Giving. It is not about something new,it is about noticing, valuing, and building on what has always been part of life in this county.