The Bridge Project – Vision Paper I – A Living Foundation of Transformation and Reconciliation
Purpose, values, peace-building intent, and initial programme pillars (retreats, leadership, youth, nature, arts) — the “why” and “what”.
Download PDFVision & Mission
On the symbolic border between North and South, Castle Saunderson is being reimagined as a living bridge — between past and future, communities and cultures, inner peace and societal transformation.
Heritage · Cross‑Border · Nature
Youth & Leadership
Arts, Dialogue & Healing
Podcast · The Spiritual Castle Project (15:30)
In this 15‑minute dialogue, professional hosts explore how Jana and Ray discovered Castle Saunderson and why they dedicate part of their life’s work to reawakening this heritage site. Based on Vision Paper 1, the conversation introduces the idea of a Spiritual Castle Project — a bridge between past and future, nations and souls.
Our Approach
We honour the site’s history while building programmes that serve people and place today.
Peace & Healing Retreats
Trauma healing, reconciliation work, silence, and nature‑based practices that help individuals and communities restore trust and wellbeing.
Youth & Scouting Empowerment
Honouring the scouting legacy with youth leadership, outdoor education, and cross‑border initiatives that shape confident, responsible citizens.
Leadership & Vision Training
Values‑based leadership programmes for decision‑makers in public, private, and civil sectors, grounded in clarity, responsibility, and service.
Nature & Silence
Forest bathing, riverside walks, biodiversity learning, and contemplative spaces across the grounds and along the water.
Arts & Creativity
Residencies for artists, musicians, and writers; storytelling and cultural events that reconnect heritage with contemporary voices.
European Dialogue Hub
Intercultural and interfaith encounters, civic dialogues, and bridge‑building programmes for a more cohesive Europe.
Why Castle Saunderson?
- Heritage at risk: A remarkable neo‑Gothic site ready for careful stewardship and new purpose.
- Borderland symbolism: A natural setting for reconciliation, healing, and cross‑border cooperation.
- Infrastructure tailwinds: Ulster Canal and greenways enhance access, ecology, and visitor flows.
We work collaboratively with public bodies, site stewards, and local communities to ensure that renewal benefits everyone.
Partners & Stakeholders
This is a collaborative effort. We engage with site stewards, local authorities, cross‑border programmes, and philanthropy to build responsibly and transparently.
Core & Public
Scouting Ireland · Cavan County Council · Coillte Ireland · SEUPB / PEACEPLUS · Shared Island Fund · Waterways Ireland · Fermanagh & Omagh District Council · Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark.
Philanthropy (Ireland & EU)
Community Foundation Ireland · The Ireland Funds · Atlantic Philanthropies (Chuck Feeney, legacy) · J.P. McManus Charitable Foundation.
Philanthropy (UK, Germany & Europe)
Thrivent Foundation · Wellcome Foundation · Ethos Foundation · Potential "Stiftung" Partner: Robert Bosch · Alfried Krupp vBuH · Lidl · Körber (illustrative partners).
We welcome conversations with additional partners who share this vision of renewal, learning, and community benefit.
Podcast · Building Together: Governance & Stakeholders (14:13)
This dialogue explores governance and structure — how the Charity of AshayaNet envisions transparent stewardship, DAO principles, and inclusive stakeholder participation. Based on Vision Paper 2, it outlines how Castle Saunderson can become a future‑ready Bridge Project with strong community ownership.
Documents
Vision Papers
For stakeholders who want a concise overview beyond the podcasts, these two papers outline the living foundation and the governance pathway of the Bridge Project.
The Bridge Project – Vision Paper II – Heritage Regeneration, Legal, Stakeholder Engagement, DAO & Web3
Regeneration approach, ownership/governance options, stakeholder engagement, funding mechanisms, and DAO/Web3 stewardship — the “how”.
Download PDFFAQ
Is this a business venture?
No. It is a mission‑driven, non‑profit initiative. Financial sustainability is necessary but not profit‑oriented.
Who owns the castle?
The site is connected with Scouting Ireland. Our intent is collaboration with all relevant stakeholders — not ownership.
Is this religious?
The project is open to and welcoming all. It is considered to be a Living Sanctuary — Led by Faith in God’s Guidance. We aim to serve through dignity, peace, and learning.
How will it be financed?
Through a combination of public programmes (e.g. cross‑border & heritage funds), philanthropy, and community support.
Who are you?
The initiative at this stage is a calling from God and private dedication; furthermore, it is facilitated by the AshayaNet Charity Blockchain with programme leads and partners across youth, leadership, nature, arts, and dialogue.
Join · Support · Connect
Add your voice. Whether you’re a neighbour, a public body, an educator, or a potential funder — we’d love to hear from you.
Contact
Pledge your support
Select one or more ways you’d like to support. We’ll follow up with next steps.
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