For a quarter-century, Hutchinson has welcomed teenagers from Northern Ireland each summer through the Ulster Project — a faith-based peace and leadership program that continues to change lives on both sides of the Atlantic.
LINK: Ulster Project brings peace and purpose to Hutchinson for 25th year
Jacob Thomas
Jacob Thomas is a host teen for the 2025 Ulster Project. He attends Trinity Catholic High School here in Hutchinson.
Jacob likes American football, basketball, and track and field. He also sings in the choir.
His favorite singer/group is Daniel Caesar.
What is something your Northern Irish teen would not know about Hutchinson: We have salt caves.
What are you looking forward to experiencing during the Project: Making connections and memories.
What is your favorite meal: Chicken
Conor Crealey
Conor Crealey is a Northern Irish teen on the 2025 Ulster Project. He lives in Portadown and attends St. Patrick's Academy in Dungannon, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland.
Your family: My mom, dad, one brother and four sisters.
Conor likes to go rowing.
Favorite singer or group: Arctic Monkeys
What is something people would not know about Portadown: That Portadown exists as it is a small town.
What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: Trying all the American foods
What is your favorite meal: Pasta Bolognese.
What makes Ireland so special: That potato crisps were invented in Ireland.
Looking ahead
The Ulster Project relies on a network of volunteers, donations, and host families to succeed. Organizer Keith Neill notes that while it’s getting harder to find host families, the impact makes it worth it. “We’re already looking for host families for 2026,” he said, encouraging anyone interested — especially those with church involvement and teens entering 10th or 11th grade — to learn more at www.hutchulster.com or call Neill 620-899-8412.
“It’s intense, but it’s only three weeks,” Neill said. “You’re not just opening your home — you’re helping create a more peaceful world.”