The Irish American Heritage Society (IAHS) has been recognized as a finalist in the Community Engagement (Education, Art & Culture) category for the 5th Annual Anthem Awards, an international program honoring purpose-driven work in social impact and cultural preservation.
Winners of the Anthem Awards are chosen by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, whose panel includes leaders from organizations such as the American Heart Association, IKEA, PepsiCo, and World Central Kitchen.
“This recognition means a great deal to us because it honors what ‘community’ truly looks like in action,” said Sean Mooney, past president ’24-’25 of IAHS.
The organization’s “Heritage in Motion” initiative highlights Augusta’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the Grand Marshal Ball, and an extended lineup of civic and cultural events.
These programs involve schools, churches, and civic groups across the region, showcasing Irish-American contributions to education, arts and culture, according to a press release from the IAHS.
Mooney said “Heritage in Motion” represents months of effort from many volunteers and partners.
“We believe shared heritage should be an open invitation – not a barrier – and we’re proud that Augusta’s Irish community is being recognized alongside global changemakers,” Mooney said.
In addition to finalist status, IAHS is also eligible for the Anthem Community Voice Award, a public vote that runs from Oct. 14 through Oct. 30 at celebrate.anthemawards.com.
Winners of the Gold, Silver and Bronze Anthem Awards will be announced Nov. 18.
Founded in 1978, IAHS now includes nearly 600 members and is known for some of the region’s most celebrated Irish cultural programming.
The group’s events, such as the Ladies Tea and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, serve as annual reminders of Augusta’s deep Irish-American heritage, according to a press release from IAHS.
The Anthem Awards, launched in 2021 by The Webby Awards, honors mission-driven organizations across seven core causes, including Education, Art & Culture; Human & Civil Rights; Health; Sustainability; and more.
