Entries by Serve

Emergency Appeal: Help Badjao Families Displaced by Fire

March 4, 2025 in /by

Emergency Appeal: Help Badjao Families Displaced by Fire





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On March 2, a devastating fire tore through Sitio Naba, Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City, destroying over 195 family homes and displacing approximately 800 people from the Badjao community. Families have lost everything and are in urgent need of shelter, food, clothing, and essential supplies. 

SERVE is launching an Emergency Relief Appeal to provide immediate assistance to those affected. We are partnering with the Presentation Sisters and the Nano Nagle team in Cebu, who are on the ground providing direct support to displaced families. With their deep-rooted connection to the Badjao community, they are ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. 

We have responded to emergency situations with the Nano Nagle team before, including COVID-19 relief, and we are committed to standing in solidarity once again during this crisis. 

This is an urgent situation, and your support—whether through a donation or a fundraiser—will provide immediate relief to families who have lost their homes and belongings. 

Together, we can bring hope and security to those in need. Thank you for standing in solidarity with the Badjao community. 

How You Can Help

✅ Donate Today – Every euro makes a difference. Your donation will provide: 
🔹 Temporary shelter for displaced families 
🔹 Nutritious food to sustain those in crisis 
🔹 Clothing and basic essentials for those who have lost everything 
🔹 Educational materials to ensure children can continue learning despite this tragedy 

Want to do more? You can organise a fundraiser to support this emergency appeal! Whether it’s a sponsored challenge, coffee morning, workplace collection, or an online fundraiser, your efforts will make a real impact. 

Here’s how to get started: 
1️⃣ Set up a fundraising page – Use our fundraising platform Give2You by Eventmaster to automatically setup a SERVE Emergency Appeal Fundraising Page right now. All funds raised will go directly to SERVE. Click here to Create Page.
2️⃣ Spread the word – Share your fundraiser with friends, family, and colleagues. 
3️⃣ Get creative – Organise an event, challenge, or donation drive to raise vital funds. 

📩 Need help setting up your fundraiser? Get in touch at paula@serve.ie  





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From SERVE to Scholarship: A Journey of Growth, Gratitude, and New Beginnings

January 13, 2025 in /by

From SERVE to Scholarship: A Journey of Growth, Gratitude, and New Beginnings

Joanna Dukkipati reflects on her SERVE journey since 2009, embracing ethical storytelling, and starting a new chapter with a PhD in Media & Communications at MTU.

 

Farewell to Jo Dukkipati from SERVE
Jo outside SERVE HQ, Scala, Cork,




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Change is the only constant.

I first joined Team SERVE in Belfast way back in 2009, and since then, I have been on and off the team but permanently in the family.

I was a bright-eyed and bushy-tailed Bombay girl. Though it wasn’t my first time traveling overseas, everything from my formative years and beyond helped me embrace Belfast and SERVE’s vision.

In my role as a SERVE volunteer in Belfast, I worked as a Communications Assistant (and Administrative Assistant). I was deeply inspired by the impact that effective communications could have in fulfilling the organisation’s goals.

I still am. While we’ve seen the most fascinating trends in communication technologies, we’ve always stayed true to honest and authentic storytelling—bridging the people of Ireland and the communities where our overseas partners work.

My longest term with the organisation began in 2021 in the role of Communications Officer. I gave my very best in my quest to challenge the stereotypical narratives often associated with volunteering overseas.

The time has come for me to say, “Got to go now, but I’ll always see you around!” Before I head out, I want to say thank you for the most humbling ride.

The world has changed beyond words. My teammates and everyone I have met through SERVE over the past few years have drenched me with hope. So, thank you!

P.S. I’m not going far. I’m heading back to “school” to pursue doctoral studies in Media & Communications at MTU.

Big hugs!

Jo

A Message from Team SERVE

On behalf of everyone at SERVE, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jo for her incredible dedication, passion, and creativity over the years. Her commitment to ethical storytelling and impactful communications has left a lasting legacy, inspiring both our team and the communities we work with. While we’ll miss her deeply, we are so proud of her as she embarks on this exciting new chapter. Jo, thank you for everything—you’ll always be a cherished member of the SERVE family. Best of luck with your PhD journey!

Jo (centre) with Nicola and Maebh on one of the Pre-departure Training Days (2024)


Joanna Dukkipati leading SERVE India project in 2011


The SERVE team in 2021 on Culture Night


Jo at the SERVE 20th Anniversay in November 2023 in Rochestown Park Hotel Cork


Jo at the SERVE 20th Anniversary in November 2023 in Rochestown Park Hotel Cork


Jo training SERVE volunteers on Ethical Communication


Jo at Friendship Cafe in Cork City Library


Jo at SERVE friendship cafe

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Donate to SERVE

Join us today in helping to provide equal opportunities for communities living in poverty across the globe.





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Run the Dublin Marathon for SERVE

January 9, 2025 in , /by

Run the Dublin Marathon 2025 for SERVE

SUNDAY 26TH OCTOBER 2025



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Days to Go

0 Days



October 26th, 2025

9:00



Dublin, Ireland



Fundraise Goal

€1,200

Take on an incredible challenge and make every step count for change!🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

Are you ready to take on the ultimate charity running challenge and run the Dublin Marathon 2025 to make a difference for Global Development?

SERVE is looking for 6 passionate runners to join us for the Dublin Marathon 2025. 

Together, we’ll raise vital funds to support SERVE’s global development programmes, tackling poverty and inequality worldwide.

Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or running your first 26.2 miles, this is your chance to make every step count for a great cause. 

With our partner Realbuzz, you’ll enjoy exclusive perks and expert support, making your marathon experience even more rewarding.

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Why Run for SERVE?

When you join Team SERVE, you’re not just running a marathon—you’re empowering communities and creating lasting change. Funds raised will go directly towards supporting SERVE’s global development programmes, such as:

  • Empowering young people through education and skills training
  • Providing sustainable solutions to tackle hunger and poverty
  • Fostering global solidarity and community resilience. 
Every step you take helps create a fairer, more equal world.

RunAMuck2022_2

Student in the computer lab at Young Africa centre in Dondo, Mozambique, funded by SERVE
Student in the computer lab at Young Africa centre in Dondo, Mozambique, funded by SERVE

run dublin marathon for SERVE 2

What we offer our Runners

As a member of Team SERVE, you’ll benefit from our exclusive runner support:

  • A SERVE running jersey to represent solidarity in style on race day.
  • Guaranteed Marathon Entry in the Dublin Marathon, even if general entries are sold out.
  • Personalised Fundraising Page and dedicated Fundraising Support to help you exceed your fundraising target.
  • Expert Training Plans and tailored advice to prepare you physically and mentally for race day.
  • Motivational updates and impact stories to keep you inspired throughout your journey.
  • Exclusive Finisher’s Pack to Celebrate your achievement.
  • Community and Discounts: Connect with other charity runners and enjoy special deals from Realbuzz’s partners.

With us, you’re set up for success every step of the way!

 

What We Ask of You

 

Each runner commits to:

Raising a minimum of €1,200 to support SERVE’s work. This covers your registration fee for the Dublin City Marathon.

We’ll support you every step of the way to reach your fundraising goal!

run dublin marathon for SERVE 1

How to Join

Take the first step today. Complete the registration form below and a member of the team will be in touch with you.
 
Once your spot is confirmed, we’ll send you everything you need to kick-start your fundraising journey. 

Key Dates

  • Dublin City Marathon: October 26, 2025
  • Registration Deadline: July 31, 2025
  • Fundraising Deadline: October 15, 2025

About the Dublin Marathon

  • The Dublin Marathon is Ireland’s largest marathon and covers a distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles) through the vibrant streets of Dublin. Join over 20,000 runners from around the world in this iconic event, taking place on Sunday, October 26, 2025.

Register your interest now!






Empower Youth with SERVE’s Skills for Youth Resilience Programme

January 8, 2025 in , , , , , , , , /by

Empowering Youth, Transforming Lives:

The Skills for Youth Resilience Programme (SYRP) 2024–2029









Welcome to the Future of Youth Empowerment

At SERVE, we believe in the transformative power of education, skills, and resilience. The Skills for Youth Resilience Programme (SYRP) 2024–2029 is our flagship initiative, working to empower over 12,250 marginalised youth in Zimbabwe and Mozambique with the tools they need to overcome poverty, secure dignified livelihoods, and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

This is more than a programme – it’s a movement to build brighter futures for young people.



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Graduation Day at Young Africa Mozambique

Donor and Partner

How you can support

How You Can Help

Every donation makes a difference. SYRP is ambitious, and we need your help to make it a reality. Here’s how you can contribute:

    • €20: Provides life skills training for one young person.
    • €50: Funds a starter kit for a graduate to begin their own business.
    • €250: Covers the cost of vocational training for a young person.

Your support can empower the next generation of changemakers. Join us in giving youth the tools they need to build a brighter tomorrow. 

Young Africa Beira Mozambique
Young Africa Beira Mozambique campus
Mechanical student Young Africa Mozambique
Mechanical student Young Africa Mozambique
Computer classroom Young Africa Mozambique
Computer Training Classroom Young Africa Mozambique
Graduation Day at Young Africa Mozambique
Graduation Day at Young Africa Mozambique
SERVE volunteers with Young Africa Students in Mozambique
SERVE volunteers with Young Africa Students in Mozambique

Why SYRP Matters?

In countries where unemployment and poverty disproportionately affect young people, SYRP provides critical vocational training, life skills education, and post-graduation support. These young people will gain practical, market-relevant skills in fields such as agriculture, mechanics, carpentry, and renewable energy.

SYRP focuses on those most in need:

    • Rural and Peri-Urban Youth: Many live in areas where access to education and training is severely limited.
    • Young Women: With a goal of achieving a 50:50 gender balance, SYRP is breaking barriers and empowering young women to lead.
    • People with Disabilities: Tailored training programmes ensure inclusive opportunities for all.

SYRP isn’t just about employment – it’s about building resilience:

    • Economic Resilience: Training graduates to launch businesses or secure employment in growing sectors.
    • Emotional Resilience: Equipping youth with life skills, mental health support, and knowledge of their rights to navigate challenges.

SYRP integrates Climate-Smart Agriculture and Renewable Energy solutions, helping young people build sustainable livelihoods while addressing the urgent challenges of climate change

  • 12,250 Youth Empowered: By 2029, these young people will have the skills and support they need to thrive.
  • 1,000 Scholarships: Ensuring access to training for the most vulnerable youth.
  • 140 Microcredit Loans: Supporting graduates in starting their own businesses.
  • 150 Farmers Trained: Bringing Climate-Smart Agriculture to rural communities.

The ‘Skills for Youth Resilience Programme’ is co-funded by the Irish Aid Civil Society Fund, SERVE and Young Africa.

Note:

SERVE is the Coordinator, Young Africa International (Young Africa Netherlands and Young Africa Hub) are Beneficiaries, and two Young Africa Affiliates are Affiliated Entities. Young Africa’s dissemination network will also benefit from this project.

The Skills for Youth Resilience Programme (SYRP) 2024–2029 is designed to empower marginalised youth in Zimbabwe and Mozambique by equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and resilience needed to build sustainable livelihoods and overcome barriers to success. The key objectives of the programme are:

  1. Enhance Economic Resilience

    • Provide vocational training and entrepreneurial skills to over 12,250 youth, enabling them to secure dignified employment or establish their own businesses.
    • Support graduates through post-graduation initiatives, including access to microcredit loans and start-up kits, ensuring sustainable income generation.

  2. Promote Emotional and Social Well-Being

    • Offer comprehensive life skills training to foster resilience, self-confidence, and mental well-being.
    • Deliver targeted education on sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), human rights, and climate change, empowering young people to make informed decisions.

  3. Increase Access and Inclusion

    • Provide 1,000 scholarships to marginalised youth, with a focus on young women, rural communities, and people with disabilities.
    • Extend training opportunities to underserved rural areas through outreach programmes, ensuring equitable access to skills development.

  4. Foster Sustainability and Innovation

    • Integrate Climate-Smart Agriculture and renewable energy training into the curriculum, helping youth adapt to the challenges of climate change.
    • Build the capacity of partner organisations to implement inclusive, innovative, and locally appropriate initiatives.

  5. Empower Youth Agency

    • Equip young people to actively participate in their communities through advocacy and leadership training.
    • Host community festivals and events to amplify youth voices and promote a positive image of vocational training.

Through these objectives, SYRP aims to create a ripple effect of empowerment, enabling young people to thrive and contribute to the sustainable development of their communities.

Full room on Young Africa Graduation Day at Mt Darwin, Zimbabwe


Susan Madodo, Director Young Africa Zimbabwe addressing the students and family at Mt Darwin


Few of the students at Mt Darwin on their Graduation Day at Young Africa with their Graduation Kit to start their business (supported by SERVE)

Young Africa Students in the computer classroom at the centre


Computer Training Classroom Young Africa Mozambique


Miss Ireland, Jasmine Gerhardt at Young Afrca zimbabwe Graduation, 2024

With your help, SYRP will continue to be a beacon of hope, opportunity, and transformation. Let’s work together to ensure that every young person has the chance to realise their potential.





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Gifts that Give Back

November 6, 2024 in /by

Gifts that Give Back

You can help make an impact.

Every SERVE Solidarity Gift you choose today for a loved one builds hope for tomorrow.

 




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You have the power to bridge the gender gap in education.

You can combat malnutrition during times of crisis.

You can address climate change.

You can guarantee that everyone experiences prosperity.

And with our Solidarity Gifts, you can achieve so much more. 

Our Solidarity Gifts

Stories of Impact

Welcome Jack to Team SERVE

October 25, 2024 in /by

Team SERVE welcomes Jack Gartland

Jack Gartland joins Team SERVE in the role of Development Project Officer




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Dia daoibh a chairde, is mise Jack Gartland.

I am delighted to be here, and I am looking forward to working with the SERVE team and its partners in Young Africa and the Redemptorist community.

Having recently completed my Masters in Environment, Society and Development in University College Galway, I am ready to assist the SERVE team in its development programmes in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia.

Táim ag tnúth le tacú leis an dheis do dhaoine óga imeallaithe agus dul i ngleic leis na contaicí a chuireann isteach ar a bhforbairt.

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Cork Slow Fashion Show

October 24, 2024 in /by

Cork Slow Fashion Show

28th Nov, 7pm, St Peter's



Sold out

Days to Go

0 Days



Nov 28th 2024

19:00



St Peter's

North Main St, Cork



Tickets

€15 per person incl raffle token

Brought to you by the people of Cork

Are you ready to witness the passion of sustainable fashion?

Don’t miss this amazing fashion show.

Your MC for the night is the stand up comedian and uncrowned queen of Cork : Laura O’Mahony

Brace yourself for Laura’s charm and wit on the night. Thrilled to have her support the great cause.

A wide range of talent will  showcase their work. All supporting a greener future. 

  • * Textile artist Susan Stephens-Barimo
  • * Children’s art group in the Living Commons, Shandon St
  • * Fashion and Jewellery Students of Douglas St. Campus
  • * Cork Clothes Swap
  • * NeedleSketches
  • * Costume designer Valentina Gambardella 
  • * Accessories designer Magdalena Wróblewska
  • * Cobh Animation Team 
  • * Zyndir
  • * Peach Vintage
  • * Miss Daisy Blue 
  • * Kinari Boutique
  • * The Fashion Club

Thank you to our sponsors: Career Training Internships, Classic Drinks, Orla McAndrew Catering and the restaurant Myxtiq for coming on board as our sponsors.

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More than a fashion show!

Remember your ticket includes a raffle token on the night.



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cork slow fashion show

Cobh Animation Team

A showcase of tote bags designed by up-cycled materials by 'NeedleSketches' paired with looks from Cork Clothes Swap

A funky and swanky collection by Peach Vintage Boutique

Students from Fashion Design and Jewellery & Art Metalcraft, Douglas Street Campus, (DSC) College of Further Education have taken inspiration from artists from the Music Industry for this show

Textile artist Susan Stephens-Barimo is creating vintage looks from vintage fabrics

Costume Design by Valentina Gambredlla

The Cork Clothes Swap will showcase fun outfits from their collection of 'new to me' clothes.

Young children from the Living Commons craft group will present their upcycled T-shirts

All the best Maebh

October 11, 2024 in /by

All the best Maebh O'Callaghan

SERVE is grateful to Maebh O’Callaghan for all the creativity and hard work in the role of  Global Citizenship Education and Volunteer Programme Co-ordinator.

 

Maebh O'Callaghan SERVE Volunteer Programme Info Stall.
Maebh O'Callaghan at DCU Volunteer Fair (2024)




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A fond farewell to Maebh O’Callaghan.

SERVE wishes Maebh who worked in the role of Global Citizenship and Volunteer Programme Coordinator the very best as she moves on to a new chapter.

Maebh’s work with SERVE has offered volunteers, students and many other people a life changing experience. Maebh also curated and hosted the thought provoking SERVE Collective sessions.

Through her work at SERVE, Maebh has fostered discussions on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, encouraging critical thinking about lifestyle choices and building solidarity with those affected by poverty and lack of Basic Human Rights.

Maebh traveled to the Philippines in July 2024 and co-led a group of volunteers in a life changing program where we were inspired by The Badjao and the Nano Nagle Team. Maebh embraced the role wholeheartedly through community spirit, the sharing of education and supporting each other.

Maebh’s dedication to SERVE’s vision and values will leave a lasting impression and make a significant impact. We are truly thankful for all the hard work.

Please join us to wish Maebh the very best for her future!

Jo (centre) with Nicola and Maebh on one of the Pre-departure Training Days (2024)


Maebh in Phillippines with SERVE (2024)


Maebh in Philippines on SERVE Volunteer Programme (2024)


Maebh at Mahon community Garden (2024)


Maebh and Nollaig at Next Step Weekend (2024


Maebh (right) at Next Step weekend (2024) with Nicola


Nearly all of us from Team SERVE with Maebh

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Join us today in helping to provide equal opportunities for communities living in poverty across the globe.





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Friendship Cafe in Cork

August 13, 2024 in /by

Friendship Cafe

Everyone in Cork is invited to come along to a welcoming social space in Cork City Library over the autumn and winter months.

Maebh O'Callaghan SERVE Volunteer Programme 2024 Ireland to Philippines table of plenty
Maebh O'Callaghan (1st from left) from SERVE with our partners The Presentation Sisters in Cebu, Philippines who work closely with the Badjao community




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The Friendship Café is a welcoming social space for people from all community backgrounds can share their experience and ideas.

We’re co-hosting the cafés with Think Speak Do Community Engagement in Cork City Library.

There will be a different theme at each Friendship Café. Everyone’s invited for casual chats. There will be tea, coffee, biccies.

This is a family friendly event.

We will have few toys and colouring pages to keep children busy while parents/child-minders can enjoy the chats.

The schedule and themes are mentioned below. Click on each date to read more.

Sept 21st @ 2:30pm in Thomas Davis Room, Cork City Library

Theme: Food

Guest speakers are: Aisling Kett from Cork Zero Waste and Anna Juda, a SERVE alumnus & Graduate Engineer who will share her experience of community cooking in Cebu, Philippines with the Badjao community.

This Friendship Cafe in the series is also part of European Sustainable Development Week.

 

Oct 10th @ 2:30pm in Thomas Davis Room, Cork City Library

Theme: World Mental Health Day

Guest speakers are Cathy Fitzgibbon aka The Culinary Celt will join Paula Quigley (from Team SERVE) to speak about mental health & well-being from different perspectives

Cathy will share about nutrition for mental health.
Paula will discuss about promoting mental health especially since it’s one of the 17 SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

Sat 16th Nov @ 2:30pm in Thomas Davis Room, Cork City Library

Theme: Power of Community

Guest speaker: Rosaleen Brady,  Youth Council member @ The Kabin Studio

It’s important to note that our theme ‘Power of Community’ reflects the role of SDG 17 Partnership for the SDGS. There are 16 other SDGS – and they are intersectional. We will also chat about this on the day.
 
 

Sat Sept 23rd @ 2:30pm in Thomas Davis Room, Cork City Library

Theme: Storytelling

Guest speaker: Leigh Mozzachio, theatre maker

.

The theme ‘Storytelling’ highlights how narratives promote equitable resource access and achieve peace.

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) act as a guide to address the world’s pressing challenges, a topic that will also be illuminated during the event.

Wed Dec 11th @ 2:30pm in Thomas Davis Room, Cork City Library

Theme: Power of Mind

Guest speaker: Maria Gillen, award-winning story-teller.

At the last edition of Friendship Cafe for 2024, we will focus on community care/care of the mind for social justice.

We will also emphasize the interconnected nature of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a means to address the challenges faced by individuals globally.

 

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Few of the attendees at the Friendship Café held in Aug 2024


Details of the Friendship Cafe


Join the conversation


Anna Juda helping with food prep for lunch on placement in the Badjao community in Cebu, Philippines


Ayanna with fellow SERVE volunteer Ann Marie with the Health Committee at the Nano Nagle Child Care & Learning Centre


Planting banana trees in Assumption Parish


Young people in Assumption Parish, Mazabuka, Zambia. SERVE works closely with Assumption Parish to improve the lives of young people.


Students of Cork Life Centre design slates for the Global Goals trail at SERVE HQ in Scala

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become a donor

Donate to SERVE

Join us today in helping to provide equal opportunities for communities living in poverty across the globe.





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