Uara: Puāwai, Aroha, Whakatika, Ako. Priorities: Relationships, Kai, Infrastructure. FINANCIAL DONATIONS: Can be deposited directly into The Serve Trust account and Name:
The Serve ASB - 12 3454 0136010 00
The Trust can provide a GST receipt on request. Thank you for your Tautoko
Email: [email protected] for any further info
Email: [email protected] for rosters information
Text: 0221772210 for volunteering info ONLY
The Serve Framework
The framework of The Serve is built around three key pillars that define how the organization operates and strives to make a lasting impact in the community:
Kai (Food Security)
The heart of The Serve is its commitment to providing nutritious meals every day of the year. Ensuring that no one in our community goes hungry is our primary mission. We source kai (food) from local donations, rescued ingredients, and community support to create meals that nourish those in need. Through this, we are helping to reduce food insecurity and promoting well-being for all. Relationships and Collaboration
Strong relationships with the local community, businesses, volunteers, and iwi are fundamental to The Serve’s success. We believe in partnerships that are reciprocal and long-lasting. Through collaboration with various stakeholders, we ensure the continuous flow of resources, volunteer support, and community connection. These relationships are built on trust, mutual respect, and shared commitment to the kaupapa (cause) of serving those in need. Infrastructure and Financial Stability
To operate effectively 365 days a year, we require a robust infrastructure and financial foundation. We aim to build a physical space that is safe, welcoming, and private for those receiving our services. In addition, we focus on sustainable funding sources through donations, sponsorships, and grants to maintain and expand our services. Ensuring long-term stability allows The Serve to continue meeting the needs of the community for years to come. Uara (Values)
The Serve’s values guide our actions, interactions, and decision-making processes. These values are central to our operations and the relationships we build:
Puāwai (To Bloom, To Grow)
Growth is essential to our mission. We are committed to expanding our reach to serve more people in need, and growing the relationships we nurture within the community. Like a flower blooming, The Serve aims to thrive and help others thrive as well. Aroha (Compassion, Love)
At the core of everything we do is aroha. We operate with empathy, kindness, and love, ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors feels welcomed, respected, and valued. This compassion extends to our volunteers, partners, and especially those we serve. Whakatika (To Rise, Strengthen)
Empowerment is key. We believe in supporting individuals to rise up and overcome challenges. We continuously work on strengthening our services, ensuring that we are always ready to meet the needs of the community and foster personal growth in those we serve. Ako (Learning and Teaching)
The Serve is a place of reciprocal learning. We value the sharing of knowledge and skills among our volunteers, staff, and those we serve. By learning from one another, we ensure that we grow together and improve the way we serve our community. Strategic Priorities
The Serve’s strategic priorities are built around achieving long-term sustainability and enhancing the services we provide. These are the focus areas for the next decade:
Building Strong Relationships
The Serve’s success depends on the strength of its relationships with the community, businesses, and volunteers. By fostering deeper partnerships with local leaders, iwi, and donors, we aim to create a network that continually supports our mission of reducing hunger and building community resilience. Securing Access to Kai
We will work to create an ecosystem that ensures a steady supply of fresh kai. By reducing food waste and improving access to nutritious food, we can better serve our community. The Serve is committed to working with local suppliers, rescue programs, and gardens to ensure a reliable source of food for our meals. Ensuring Sustainable Infrastructure
We aim to build a permanent, safe space where people can gather and share meals in a dignified and private environment. In addition, we will focus on securing the financial resources needed to maintain and expand our services, ensuring that we can serve meals every day, year-round. Implementation Plan
The Serve’s implementation plan outlines the actions we will take to achieve our strategic priorities. This includes specific steps to turn our vision into reality:
Strengthen and Expand Relationships
Identify key partnerships with businesses, iwi, community groups, and local leaders. Foster these relationships through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and regular engagement. Ensure these relationships are reciprocal, contributing to our mission of reducing hunger and supporting community well-being. Create a Robust Kai Ecosystem
Connect with local food suppliers, supermarkets, and food rescue organizations to secure a consistent food supply. Establish systems to collect and repurpose food that would otherwise go to waste. Develop meal plans and guidelines for volunteers to ensure variety and nutritional value in the meals we serve. Build and Sustain Infrastructure
Secure a permanent physical location that is welcoming, private, and safe for the community to enjoy their meals. Set up donation systems that ensure we can cover operational costs and build a financial buffer for emergencies. Embed Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles into all policies and procedures, ensuring that Māori values and perspectives are central to The Serve’s operations. By focusing on these key actions, The Serve will be able to continue its vital role in providing food security, building relationships, and creating a sustainable future for the community.
