3 local organisations set to benefit from £2.6 million funding boost

by Q Radio News

The International Fund for Ireland has confirmed funding of £2.6 million that will be shared between 11 community based organisations in Northern Ireland. 

The funding was approved at the organisations recent Board Meeting in County Antrim. 

Nine good relations projects will benefit from £1.5 million of the money, for assisting young people to take better control of their lives and overcome adversity. 

They're supported through the Fund's Personal Youth Development Programme and aim to provide opportunities to build resilience and self-confidence and improve education and employment prospects. 

Remaining funding will support projects delivered through the Peace Impact Programme.

They address difficult issues linked to the legacy of conflict and engage with people who are at risk attack or recruitment by armed groups. 

Three of the lastest funding packages will be going to local organisations across Fermanagh and Tyrone. 

The Border Arts 2000 in Castlederg will receive £157,588 for it's 'Level Up for Work' programme. 

It's a two year cross-community project that engages with 18 young people from Castlederg, Victoria Bridge and Newstonstewart areas of West Tyrone in personal development and training activities. 

£254,365 will be allocated to Galbally Youth and Community Association. 

It will be used to extend and expand the Game Changer project for two years. 

In the last year the project has give 19 young people access to a range of development opportunities that have helped turn their lives around. 

By extending the programme, it will allow 10 new participants to receive support for personal development, good relations and skills development; a new element will focus on connecting young people with further education and employment.

The Fermanagh Rural Community Initiative in Enniskillen will benefit from £200,180 for Fermanagh Youth Development. 

That's a 24 month cross-community project that helps provide a range of opportunities for 24 young people across Enniskillen, Ballinamallard, Kesh, Irvinestown and Lisnaskea. 

The project will help young people in the target areas to build and develop life skills, resilience and confidence as well as gain accredited qualifications.