Irish American Heritage Society of Augusta wins award for community engagement

The Irish American Heritage Society (IAHS) of Augusta, Georgia, has been awarded a Bronze Anthem Award in the Education, Art & Culture category for Local Community Engagement, honoring the Society’s 2025 Heritage in Motion program and its work to champion Irish culture throughout the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA).

This recognition highlights the role of the Irish diaspora as active cultural ambassadors. Through its annual season of programming, the IAHS brings Irish arts, history, and tradition into public life across the region, strengthening the shared cultural link between Ireland and the Irish-American community in the Southeast.

The Anthem Awards celebrate global social impact work, with honorees selected by an independent panel from the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences.

Judges include respected leaders such as Nancy Brown (CEO, American Heart Association), Asha Curran (CEO, GivingTuesday), Ashley Judd (author, actor, and social justice humanitarian), and Darren Walker (President, Ford Foundation).

Past honorees include organizations such as Patagonia, Sesame Workshop, The New York Times, and Amnesty International, as well as cultural figures like Matt Damon, Dr. Jane Goodall, and Kevin Bacon.

The IAHS received this honor for its multi-week Heritage in Motion initiative held throughout February and March 2025. The program engaged thousands of residents and visitors through cultural events, performances, educational activities, and community celebrations tied to St. Patrick’s Day.

More than fifteen formal partnerships across civic, religious, educational, and cultural sectors supported the effort, including strong collaboration with the Irish Consulate in Atlanta. The program’s goal was clear: deepen Irish cultural identity, promote cross-community understanding, and celebrate the enduring bond with Ireland.

Accepting the award at the ceremony in New York City were Past President Sean Mooney (2024–2025) and Past President Tim Regan (2001–2002), representing the Society’s officers, executive board, and membership.

“This recognition speaks to the strength and spirit of the Irish diaspora in our region,” said Past President Sean Mooney. “Our goal is always to honor Ireland by sharing its culture with hospitality, inclusion, and a wee bit of celebrating! We are proud to see that work acknowledged on a global stage.”

More information about Heritage in Motion can be found here.