Coolnagreina is a registered charity and is part of the Young Women’s Christian Association of Ireland (YWCA). It is led by a voluntary committee of local Christians.

Originally a private residence, built in approximately 1850, the house became a holiday home in 1894. Its purpose then was to provide safe and affordable holiday accommodation for young women who were either shop workers or in domestic service.

Over the years, Coolnagreina's staff, management and committees have looked to provide a service to a diverse range of groups and individuals while remaining consistent to its Christian ethos.