During the summer of 2024, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support the establishment of two O’Donovan non-profit corporations. The campaign successfully raised over $5000 USD to cover incorporation costs in the U.S. and Ireland. These formal organizations will provide a solid legal framework with strong board governance, transparency and accountability. The Clan will be able to enter into contracts, raise funds, and implement objectives and activities of interest to Clan members.
O’Donovans and Donovans worldwide are invited to participate in the inaugural O’Donovan Clan Cultural Association Assembly, on 5-7 September 2025. The Assembly offers the opportunity for members to engage and celebrate together, and to formulate strategies for building a robust Clan infrastructure going forward.
The Details:
Why hold a Clan Assembly in 2025?
The 2025 Clan meeting is for O’Donovans and Donovans to commemorate the O’Donovan Millennial Gathering of 2000, to celebrate together, and to:
Connect with family members from Ireland and the Irish Diaspora
Share knowledge about Clan history and genealogy
Walk the land of our ancestors
Clarify the O’Donovan Clan Cultural Association goals, membership structure, bylaws and governance framework
Explore ideas and initiatives with members from around the world to help the Clan thrive into the future
Experience West Cork’s matchless natural beauty, as well as its vibrant contemporary arts, culinary, cultural and sports scenes.
Who should attend?
Donors to last summer’s GoFundMe appeal and other contributors, who wish to participate as leaders in planning future events, initiatives and Clan projects
Enthusiastic O’Donovans and Donovans from Ireland and around the world.
Where will the Assembly take place?
Venues in the towns of Clonakilty and Skibbereen in West Cork will host us, including the Michael Collins House, Clonakilty Park Cinema, and West Cork Hotel.
A suggested list of Hotels, B&Bs and cottage rentals in nearby towns will be available.
What will the 2025 O’Donovan Clan Cultural Association Assembly look like?
Simple format for 100 or fewer attendees, with educational presentations, hands-on work sessions, cultural and meal events, and informal social time.
Highlights:
Friday, 5 September:
Private tour of Michael Collins House: how O’Donovans influenced Collins
Launch event: meet & mingle at Clonakilty Park Cinema,
Film screening: “Rebel Wife” celebrating Mary Jane O’Donovan Rossa
Q&A with the filmmaker, Williams Rossa Cole, great-grandson of Jeremiah & Mary Jane O’Donovan Rossa.
Informal pub gatherings with music in Clonakilty.
Saturday, 6 September:
Registration & Coffee hour
Inaugural Business Meeting to share information on Clan Governance and proposed future projects.
Concurrent sessions on O’Donovan history and genealogy.
Roundtables/working groups on future Clan activities.
Hurling clinic
Skibbereen walking tour
Evening Vigil Mass with prayers for living and deceased O’Donovans – St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Skibbereen
Informal group dinner options
Sunday, 7 September:
Coffee/social hour
History & genealogy sessions with expert speakers.
Working group reports, proposals/ideas for future projects.
Sunday Banquet Luncheon with distinguished guests.
Ceremony at Castle Donovan commemorating the Millennial 2000 Gathering.
Pre- and post-Assembly group tours and activities may be arranged in the days prior to and following the Assembly. Examples: Golf outings, whiskey tasting, Cape Clear/Fastnet boat trip, Afternoon Teas.
Fringe events: West Cork Farmers’ markets, hiking, kayaking, self-guided archeology/history tours; local art/craft galleries and more.
If there is interest, a multi-day small-group tour can include West Cork, Kerry and O’Donovan sites in Limerick.
How will the Clan Assembly be implemented in 2025?
The keys to a fun and productive Assembly will be members’ enthusiasm for connection and sharing, effective delineation of Clan goals and objectives, and solid strategic planning for future projects and activities.
Considerable effort will be needed to produce this important milestone celebration. Ideally, each and every attendee will contribute their unique skills and talents to the program of events. Every small volunteer task is important to the overall success of the Assembly.
Next Steps
Save the date: 5-7 September, 2025
Volunteerto help plan Assembly events, host a session, lead a roundtable discussion or assist in on-site program management.
Many thanks to all who have assisted in our efforts so far. We will continue to share news of Assembly plans, and to solicit input from O’Donovans on all aspects of Clan governance. See you in September!
