Volunteer

Description

Join SERVE, a Cork-based volunteer organisation, this summer and make a real impact with the Badjao community, a nomadic, seafaring tribe in Cebu, Philippines. 

As a construction volunteer, you’ll: 

• Repair, renovate, and maintain school facilities to create safer, brighter learning spaces. 

• Support practical building projects that benefit young people aged 4–25. 

• Work alongside the community, gaining hands-on experience and learning from a unique culture. 

This programme is open to anyone 18+ and out of secondary education, with a willingness to learn and a love for getting hands dirty. Backgrounds in construction, engineering, trades, or architecture are a bonus — but your attitude matters most. 

Duration: 4 weeks in-country, including pre-departure and post-placement workshops. 

Ready to build something that really matters? Apply now and help create spaces where futures can grow. 

Is training provided?:Yes

Please note that Garda Vetting is required for this position which will be processed with you after you apply.

Tasks that the volunteer(s) will be expected to undertake:

Construction Volunteer Tasks & SDGs – SERVE in Cebu 

Repair, renovate, and maintain school facilities and create safer, brighter learning spaces for young people. Relevant SDGs: 4 – Quality Education | 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure 

Support practical building projects through hands-on projects that directly benefit children and youth aged 4–25. Relevant SDGs: 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities 

Work alongside the community and gain real-world experience and learn from the unique Badjao culture. Relevant SDGs: 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth | 10 – Reduced Inequalities | 17 – Partnerships for the Goals 

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Make a Real Difference. 

• Hands-On Learning Experience

• Personal Growth & Confidence

• Professional Development

• Cultural Immersion & Connection 

• Support & Guidance Throughout

• A Life-Changing Experience

Details of time commitment needed for role:
The overseas project (average 4 weeks) is only one piece of our Volunteer Programme. When you accept the placement you’re signing up to a year long programme. This includes training days, Ireland based volunteer events, Global Citizenship Education workshops and learning about the Sustainable Development Goals. The programme includes mandatory training days in Cork to ensure you are prepared and ready. It also includes creative work: self reflection blogs, photography and videos. You are also required to attend a post programme celebration weekend, to debrief and reflect on your experience alongside your co-volunteers. Volunteer Training commences from February – June 2026 (before overseas departure).

Minimum time commitment per week:
Flexible/Varies

Additional screening required for this role::
Application Form, Interview, Police Clearance and Reference Checks

Sustainable Development Goal:

Hei:
ATU - DONEGAL, ATU - GALWAY, ATU - MAYO, ATU - SLIGO, ATU - ST ANGELA'S, DUBLIN CITY UNIVERSITY, TU DUBLIN, UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK, UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLIN, UNIVERSITY OF GALWAY, UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK