World Humanitarian Day #ShareHumanity

World Humanitarian Day is a day to celebrate the spirit that inspires humanitarian work around the world. As the world becomes a more and more volatile place, this has never been more important. There is an urgent need to realise a greater sense of responsibility and develop a sense of global community. World Humanitarian Day should inspire action and make it clear that we stand in solidarity against conflict, torture, disease, famine, suffering and the poor leadership that often turns a blind eye. This day is a great opportunity to get involved and do something to help those who need it the most. (Source: World Humanitarian Day Website)

SERVE staff and volunteers on at the top of Carrauntoohil, Kerry while taking part in the SERVE Four Peaks Challenge

SERVE staff and volunteers on at the top of Carrauntoohil, Kerry while taking part in the SERVE Four Peaks Challenge

SERVE are celebrating the dedication and spirit of our staff, volunteers, supporters and partners on World Humanitarian Day. SERVE volunteers work in solidarity with our partners overseas, supporting them in their work to improve the lives of the communities we work with. With a thirst to learn more, and with the knowledge of the interdependence and interconnectedness of our world, SERVE volunteers have committed to making a difference – starting at home.

SERVE staff and volunteers organised 'Swap til you Drop!' with Comhlamh's Dev Ed and Volunteering group, to raise awareness about ethical consumerism and promote creative ways to live more sustainably

SERVE staff and volunteers organised ‘Swap til you Drop!’ with Comhlamh’s Dev Ed and Volunteering group, to raise awareness about ethical consumerism and promote creative ways to live more sustainably

“Charity begins at home…but it doesn’t stop there!” The choices that we make on a daily basis, directly influence and impact the lives of people all over the world. From the clothes we wear, fuel for our cars, food we eat, we are connected to individuals in the majority world.

After working overseas, some SERVE volunteers have changed their direction of study, advocated for the rights of the undocumented people living in the informal settlements in South Africa, advocated for the rights of the Badjao tribe in the Philippines, raised awareness and shared their stories in their local communities through presentations in schools, youth groups and churches, helped us at different fundraising events…the list goes on.

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SERVE volunteer Karina McGinley facilitating Development Education session on HIV, Mines and Migration in South Africa

This spirit and dedication needs to be recognised and celebrated. We would like to #ShareHumanity and promote the work that SERVE volunteers have done in solidarity with the communities we work alongside in the majority world.