Strategic Framework Launch

“The difference for me between Solas Project and other services is that they don’t give up, they actually care. On my days when I’m broken and down and feel like I have nobody, Solas is the place for me to go…it’s that little safe space so I’ll always be grateful to them forever.” – Young Person, Rua Programme

On Thursday, May 16th, we had the joy of launching our strategic framework, which outlines our organisational priorities for the next five years. We titled the framework "Never Give Up" to express our unwavering commitment to our goals, our communities, and, most importantly, our young people. This sentiment was beautifully expressed by one of our young participants in the quote above who shared at the event about his experience being a part of our Rua programme.

Other highlights from the event included a panel from our Junior and Senior After Schools Clubs who shared about the fun and activities they get to do together. When asked what they would say to someone new at their club, a Junior participant responded:

“We’re a kind group of people who do activities, go to the sports hall, and we have food.” – Junior Club Participant

This simple sentiment reminds us that it's often the little things—kindness, shared experiences, and meals—that make the biggest difference. As we determined our strategic priorities, we focused on enhancing the sustainability and reach of our existing programmes that already do these things well. This ensures that our goals are achievable and aligned with our vision of helping children and young people recognise their worth and reach their full potential. Our four strategic priorities are outlined in the graphic below; to read more about each one in detail click the button below.

A final significant highlight of the launch event was the presence of Salla Heron, the original founder of Solas Project, which began as an After Schools club for girls in Basin Lane. It was moving to see how far Solas Project has grown since its humble beginnings in 2007, now supporting approximately 700 young people in Dublin annually.

We extend our sincerest thanks to everyone who attended the launch event: our Board, young people, statutory funders including CDETB and Probation, representatives from the Irish Prison Service, Gardai, corporate and university partners, representatives from local schools, community and youth organisations, and some of our TDs and councillors. Together we can work towards societal change to ensure future generations do not face the same challenges our young people do today. As we look ahead to the next five years, we do so with gratitude, determination, and hope.