About KCYS

Kerry Diocesan Youth Service (KCYS) is a youth-led, youth-focused organisation dedicated to empowering young people and their communities. For over 50 years, we’ve been creating meaningful opportunities that support young people to learn, lead, and thrive. Everything we do is shaped by the voices of young people — we work with them, not just for them.

Who We Are

KCYS is a community-based youth work organisation committed to providing safe, positive, and inclusive spaces for young people. Through youth centres, outreach services, mentoring, training, and development opportunities, we support their holistic growth and well-being.

Founded in 1971, we are the leading youth work provider in the South West of Ireland, covering the Diocese of Kerry — including all of County Kerry, the Beara Peninsula, and the Duhallow region of North West Cork.

Our Mission

To serve all young people in a safe, fun and supportive environment through youth work services, spaces, mentoring, training, and advocacy — helping them reach their full potential.

Our Vision

A community where every young person is valued, supported, and empowered to take part and thrive.

Our Core Values

• Young person-centred
• Rights-based
• Empowering
• Inclusive
• Respectful
• Non-judgemental

Our Guiding Principle

Youth participation is at the heart of everything we do.

Our Goals

• Support young people across Kerry to reach their full potential
• Operate as an independent, youth-centred charity
• Deliver integrated, targeted supports for young people and families
• Be recognised as a centre of excellence in youth work
• Strengthen governance, leadership and coordination
• Empower our staff and volunteers to grow and succeed