Cork Charity SERVE unites children around the world with Pen Pals Project

SERVE has initiated a pen-pal writing project between the schools we work with in Ireland and Germany and our partners in Vietnam and Assumption Parish in Zambia. This is part of the SDG Champions School Programme.  

The SERVE Pen Pals Project began in 2022 to bridge the youth in Ireland and Germany to Vietnam and Zambia. This initiative contributes to a deeper understanding of cultures while sustaining the art of letter writing.  

Schoolchildren from around Ireland, Germany, and Zambia talked to us about their positive experiences writing to their peers abroad and learning from each other. Their happy faces highlight how delighted they are to have the chance to bridge the gap between our borders and make new friends! 

Milimo Muchanga, our partner liaison with Assumption Parish, explained, “This project helps young people in the community to practise English reading, writing and speaking skills. This gives the youth an opportunity to develop social skills while learning about a different culture. Students have begun to understand the differences in the world around them in all areas of life relevant to them.” 

This project is co-orodinated by Rory Murphy from the SERVE team. Rory explained, “The SERVE Pen Pal Project connects students in Cork, Mayo, Kildare, Augsburg (Germany), Hanoi, (Vietnam) and Mazabuka (Zambia). Over 200 students across these cities engaged. This project has been a value to the students in Ireland and Germany because it helps them to understand the challenges that other young people face in different parts of the world." 

If you would like to support our work abroad, please consider setting up a standing donation with us. Find out more on our website: https://serve.ie/donate-2/serve-standing-order/