NJ Irish Society

Mission, Vision, Officers, History

Mission Statement

We are an Irish American community-based volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing, promoting and preserving Irish culture and heritage, promoting charity and honoring our Irish heritage within our community while serving the community at large.

Vision Statement

The vision of the NJ Irish Society is to effectively meet the emerging needs of our community, giving them tools to be more self-sufficient and with sustainable resources while honoring and embracing our Irish heritage.

Officers

Patrick Hagan, President

Lori Ryan, Treasurer

Patrick Ward, Secretary

History

The NJ Irish Society was born from a partnership between Monsignor William Hodge and for former Mayor and Mummer Daniel Spencer. The two met when Monsignor was assigned to St. Mary’s Parish and shared a vision to create vibrant events in South Jersey that celebrate Irish Culture. They wanted to create events where the region could come celebrate Irish and local cultures but also bring the community together and help residents in need with a hand up. The two along with community members launched the first Irish Month Parade in 2016. The parade features, Irish entertainment, Traditional mummers, local community groups, and businesses and now draws thousands of visitors to Gloucester City each year.

From that initial planning committee, the NJ Irish Society was formally founded in 2019. The NJ Irish Society presents events and initiatives year-round as part of paying tribute to our strong history of Irish tradition. The NJ Irish Society is vested in sustaining a vibrant community with excellent quality of life for the residents and visitors alike while honoring Gloucester City’s rich history of Irish heritage dating back to the 1600’s when Irish Quakers first settled in the Town of Gloucester.