Give the Gift of Community This Christmas
Give the Gift of Community This Christmas
“Nano Nagle Place has been a fundamental part of my journey. It’s my place of healing, it’s where I found my voice and the confidence to return to education. The support I received gave me the strength to grow and now I can help others who are struggling” – Ann Doran
Nano Nagle Place is a beacon of hope in Cork, continuing the legacy of Nano Nagle, lovingly known as the “Lady of the Lantern.” Throughout her life, Nano dedicated herself to supporting the city’s communities, fostering compassion and connection. Today, Nano Nagle Place carries forward these values, offering a safe space where individuals from all walks of life can find support, healing, and a genuine feeling of belonging.
But in Cork today, a true sense of community and connection has been diminished. Many face loneliness, exclusion, and uncertainty as they navigate grief, isolation, or the challenges of building a new life.
Your support can truly transform lives
By donating to Nano Nagle Place this Christmas, you help ensure it remains a place where people find support, purpose, and friendship. Free programmes like personal development, mindfulness, English classes, and skills training empower individuals to transform their lives and reconnect with their community.
With your generosity, we can continue to provide learning, connection, and practical support to people like Pat, Pam, and Anne, helping them thrive.
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Real Stories, Real Impact
Pam’s Story: Finding Joy and Belonging in a New Community
At 75, Pamela left her home, friends, and family in South Africa for a new life in Ireland. Many told her it was a mistake, that she would be lonely and wouldn’t make friends at her age. But everything changed when she found Nano Nagle Place.
“Three weeks after I arrived, I discovered Nano Nagle Place and the Lantern Project, and it was the main reason I settled in Ireland so quickly. I signed up for courses in crochet and stitching right away, and I haven’t looked back.”
Now 83, Pamela stays busy as an Assistant Teacher helping young children learn English. She is involved in many activities, from courses to concerts, and has found a deep sense of belonging in Nano Nagle Place.
“It’s my happy place. Everyone is so kind and welcoming. I feel loved and cared about—and I’m so busy now, I haven’t got time to get old!”
Pamela’s story is just one example of how Nano Nagle Place transforms lives through community, connection, and purpose.
This Christmas, your gift can help bring belonging to others like Pam
Anne’s Story: Finding Healing and Renewed Confidence
As a full-time carer for her elderly parents, Anne often felt isolated and overwhelmed, struggling to find time for herself. Discovering Nano Nagle Place became a turning point, offering her a sense of belonging, support, and the tools to transform her life.
“My experience at Nano Nagle has had a ripple effect on my family and friends. I’m better and do better because of it. From my first personal development course, I found my voice and the confidence to return to education. Now, I can help others who are struggling.”
Anne continues to thrive studying in UCC and with a busy job. She fondly recalls attending a retreat called ‘Minding Yourself Through Christmas’ with the Presentation Sisters. “I didn’t want to leave the room. I felt so connected, supported, and encouraged. The Sisters truly embody Nano Nagle’s legacy—everyone is welcome, and you feel that in spades.”
For Anne, Nano Nagle Place is more than a support network—it’s a space of healing, growth, and empowerment. Your generosity helps ensure that more people like Anne can find the connection and confidence they need to thrive.
Pat’s Story: Finding Friendship and Purpose
At 67, retired plumber Pat enjoys life with his new puppy, Rosie. His connection to Nano Nagle Place goes back decades—his mother attended school there, and as a young apprentice, Pat worked on the grounds. “I have fond memories of having a cuppa in the gardens,” he recalls.
After retiring in 2006 to care for his father, Pat rediscovered Nano Nagle Place through the Lantern Project. “I started with a Mindfulness course, and I quickly realised it was more about connecting with people from different backgrounds in a safe, welcoming space.”
Now, Nano Nagle Place is central to Pat’s life. He participates in courses like gardening, cooking, and woodwork, and enjoys meeting new people. “I’ve made great friends, and for people like me who might be lonely, it offers so much value. It’s a place where everyone is respected, and we all share our experiences.”
Pat is already looking forward to next year’s courses. “Going back to Nano Nagle Place brought back happy memories. It’s been special to me throughout my life.”
Why Your Support Matters
Reflecting on why he encourages others to support Nano Nagle Place, Pat says, “I’ve seen first hand the difference it makes—not just to me, but to so many others. Whether people are facing loneliness, life struggles, or starting fresh in Ireland, Nano Nagle Place becomes such an important part of their lives. It’s a lifeline.”
Pat’s story is a testament to the power of connection and community. Your support ensures Nano Nagle Place continues to be a haven for people like Pat, helping them rediscover purpose and belonging.
Make a Difference This Christmas
Your generosity ensures Nano Nagle Place continues to be a vital source of community and connection. Together, we can help more people find belonging, purpose, and friendship.
Your support keeps Nano Nagle Place a shining light in our community—a place where friendships bloom, struggles are shared, and hope endures.
Will you give the gift of community this Christmas and keep Nano Nagle’s legacy alive for future generations?