Some of the Serve in Solidarity team.

You can make a difference

A Leeside volunteering organisation is asking the public to get involved in a new global initiative that tackles social issues.

SERVE in Solidarity, a not-for-profit organisation based in Blackrock, is calling for applications to Think Global, Act Local, a new initiative for people who want to make a real difference in both their local communities and around the world.

The initiative offers an opportunity for individuals passionate about social justice to take steps towards making a positive mark in the world by volunteering their time as active global citizens.

Speaking at the recent launch of the initiative, SERVE Chairperson Gerry O’Connor explained that the Think Global, Act Local programme is designed to “open our eyes to all we can become” by being proactive about social issues and showing solidarity to help reduce inequalities.

“These inequalities are meant to be addressed by shattering the us and them mentality,” added Nollaig Hulme from the Think Global, Act Local Steering Committee.

She continued: “The barriers that exist between people from different background and cultures need to be broken down.”

In addition to volunteering opportunities, the initiative provides the space to network with like-minded peers and learn about critical issues such as poverty, gender equality, responsible consumption, and the ethics of volunteering.

Fiachra Brennan, SERVE’s Volunteer Coordinator, Think Global, Act Local said this is an interactive programme which offers a great opportunity to come together with people who have varied experiences and to “explore global goals and social justice together”.

He added: “The complete programme is centred around the inputs of participants so there is a huge scope to build one’s learning around their specific interests.”

SERVE in Solidarity is a development and volunteering organisation committed to tackling poverty by working with marginalised and oppressed communities in the majority world.

The organisation currently serves communities in India, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Vietnam, Philippines and Mozambique.

Anyone over 18 is encouraged to apply to the initiative.

For more visit serve.ie.