Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
Designer Alex Carberry (right) and a volunteer. Richard Moore
community
US students come together to transform Dublin youth centre
Notre Dame students gave a facelift to a youth centre on Dublin’s Cork Street.
THEY ARE BEST known on this side of the water as the Fighting Irish, but 40 students from Notre Dame showed a kinder side this week.
The University students from the United States, working over the weekend in partnership with Localise, the youth and community development organisation, have created a new youth centre for 10-15 year-olds in the south inner city of Dublin.
The centre is located at the Sophia Housing unit on 25 Cork Street, Dublin 8.
The Notre Dame students obtained materials and supplies for the project from their alumni while designers Emily Westbrooks and Alex Carberry volunteered their time and expertise to the project.
Two disused offices were transformed into one youth space, providing a safe nurturing environment for local teenagers.
Derek Cleary of Localise said the work carried out at the weekend illustrated how young people were determined to give back to communities. “This was the first time our organisation has utilised foreign students in such a project.
The enthusiasm and spirit of the students from America was tangible and they have left a great facility for those less well off in society.
Declan Dunne, CEO of Sophia Housing, said: “We are extremely grateful to the Localise team and the students from Notre Dame for creating a youth centre which will be of immense benefit to those living in the housing facility and the immediate community of Cork Street.”
have your say