Irish American Building Society
About Irish American Building Society
Irish American Building Society (IABS) represents a living commitment to honoring Irish heritage and giving back to the New York, NY community. Rooted in the principle of Tabhair ar ais—To Give Back—IABS embodies the values and contributions of Irish-Americans throughout history, particularly those who shaped the building, real estate, and construction industries in the United States. The organization was established to create a setting where members experience genuine friendship, cooperation, and mutual development on both personal and professional levels, while collectively strengthening the Irish-American presence in New York. IABS takes immense pride in preserving Irish culture despite historical challenges including genocide, colonization, immigration, and discrimination. Through active participation in cultural celebrations, educational support, and community service, the organization ensures that the next generation understands and appreciates their Irish heritage. The society's mission extends beyond cultural preservation to tangible community impact: supporting Catholic education, raising funds for college scholarships, and contributing to charitable organizations addressing immediate community needs. Members gather throughout the year at signature events like the Great Irish Fair in Park Slope, Brooklyn—a beloved community tradition that celebrates Irish identity while supporting local schools. IABS's Board of Directors, led by President Marty Cottingham, guides the organization's vision of benefiting both membership and the broader New York community, both locally and globally. By maintaining continuous exchange of information among members and fostering education through scholarships and cultural programming, IABS honors its ancestors while building a stronger, more connected Irish-American community for the future.