If you've lived in Ireland for any amount of time, or ever read a copy of the Irish Times, then you'll have heard of John O'Shea. One of the most outspoken NGO types around, his charity tapped into one of the most brilliant ideas for an NGO - make it the sportspeople's choice. Very family-oriented still (the daughters are deeply involved and that), it's one of those 'local charities gone global'. Campaigning to alleviate poverty in the poorest of the poor, their outspokenness and visibility via the involvement of prominent sportspeople means that they are one of the best-known in this NGO sector. Calling their volunteers GOALies, organising runs and other sporty fundraisers, they know their niche, and work tirelessly on their issues. read more