Gaisce – The President’s Award is a self-development programme for young people which enhances confidence and wellbeing through participation in personal, physical and community challenges. Gaisce is a direct challenge from the President of Ireland to young people aged 15-25 to dream big and realise their potential. Gaisce is non-competitive – participants are encouraged to choose their own activities and goals with the support of a trained, adult President’s Award Leader (or PAL). The Gaisce programme is delivered by over 1,500 PALs working and volunteering in a variety of organisations across Ireland. There are three levels of Gaisce – Bronze, Silver and Gold. The more time and energy participants give, the greater their reward.
For many years An Óige hostels have been hugely popular destinations for Gaisce Award Partners (GAPs) pursuing the Adventure Journey Challenge of the Gaisce Award. Thousands of young people have completed their Adventure Journey through two of An Óige hostels in Wicklow alone! By becoming an Adventure Journey Challenge Partner with An Óige, both organizations can progress the use of outdoor recreation and sustainability in the development of young people.