This May, we are celebrating 40 years of Gaisce - The President’s Award - with a national call to action. 

For 40 years as Ireland’s National Youth Award, Gaisce has had a transformative impact on the personal development of young people in Ireland, instilling a sense of purpose, recognising achievement, fostering confidence, and encouraging young people to reach their full potential. Since 1985, 520,000 young people have participated in the Award, and now you have the chance to get involved too.

We wanted you to be one of the first to know about our ‘Be The Arrow’: Gaisce’s 40th Anniversary Challenge.  Whether you’re 8 or 80, we’re inviting people of all ages to take on a personal challenge that inspires them - either by volunteering, getting active, or learning a new skill. 

Here’s how you can help and get involved: 

• It’s FREE to register, open to everyone, and a powerful way to celebrate 40 years of transforming young people’s lives through Gaisce.
• Register to take part in the challenge: www.bethearrow.ie 
• Share ‘Be The Arrow’ with your colleagues, friends, family and community and encourage them to take part

• Share a social media post (use the graphic attached) and include the hashtag #BeTheArrow in your caption

Everyone who takes part will receive a commemorative digital Gaisce Challenge Certificate from President Michael D. Higgins. If you like, you can take your Gaisce challenge to the next level by fundraising for the Gaisce SUAS Bursary Fund, which helps young people facing marginalisation or disadvantage to access the Gaisce Award. Raise €100 or more, and you’ll receive an exclusive Gaisce Be The Arrow t-shirt as a thank you for your support!

Be part of something special, help us spread the word and continue young people’s lives are transformed and enriched through Gaisce Award participation!