New York Irish Center
About New York Irish Center
Founded on the vision of Belfast native Fr. Colm Campbell and Cavan native Paddy Reilly, the New York Irish Center in Long Island City represents a lifelong dream realized for countless members of the greater New York Irish community. Established in 2005 following the acquisition of their Jackson Avenue property in 2003, the Center embodies the spirit of a generation that left Ireland during the 1980s recession and brought new life to the ties binding two great nations. This community-centered organization serves as a welcoming home for the Irish at heart, offering céad mile fáilte—one hundred thousand welcomes—to all who walk through its doors, regardless of heritage, background, or identity. The New York Irish Center's story is deeply rooted in paying it forward and community investment, with early members contributing tremendous sweat equity to renovations while Irish building contractors generously donated their expertise. Today, the Center thrives as both a cultural institution and a cherished gathering space where seniors, young people, and families find connection, belonging, and purpose. Positioned in the burgeoning Long Island City neighborhood with convenient access via the 7 train, the Center has become an anchor between young and old, a steady source of volunteer opportunities, and a vital resource for those seeking cultural programs, social engagement, and meaningful community relationships. The organization's core philosophy—Community. Culture. Care.—reflects its unwavering commitment to serving not just the Irish community, but all people in the New York tri-state area seeking connection and cultural enrichment.