PepsiCo Volunteers Bring Sustainability Fun to Inclusive GAA Cúl Camp at Páirc Uí Chaoimh

More than 70 children of all abilities gathered at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh for a special GAA Inclusive Cúl Camp, where PepsiCo Little Island volunteers combined sport with sustainability education through interactive games and environmental awareness activities.

The camp welcomed young participants from clubs across Cork, including Newcestown, Valley Rovers, Ballinhassig, Douglas, Midleton, Fermoy, and the legendary Nemo Rangers. It showcased how sport can unite children of all abilities whilst teaching them valuable lessons about protecting our environment.

PepsiCo's team of volunteers brought their enthusiasm to the stadium, engaging campers through creative sustainability-themed activities. Children tackled "Spin the Wheel", testing their knowledge of proper waste sorting between recycling, compost, and general waste bins: skills that'll serve them well whether they're at home or cheering on the Rebels at the Páirc.

The volunteers also introduced "Green Team SNAP" and hosted quizzes on greener living, turning environmental education into an entertaining experience that had the children learning whilst having the craic.

Paudie Crowley, Games Development Lead at Cork GAA:

"I want to extend our deepest gratitude for PepsiCo's generous support in providing volunteers for our summer Inclusive Camp. The team's enthusiasm, compassion and dedication had a profound impact on our campers and staff alike. Thanks to the volunteers, we were able to create a welcoming and joyful environment where every participant felt valued, supported and empowered to be themselves."

Devan O'Donnell, HR Assistant Business Partner at PepsiCo:

"Seeing our colleagues connect with the children through games and conversations was inspiring. This camp reflects the values we care about at PepsiCo: creating opportunities for inclusion and supporting young people in our community."

Bernadette Leyden, Health & Safety Manager at PepsiCo:

"The campers showed us what real fun and teamwork look like. It was heart-warming to see their joy while also learning together about protecting our environment: an issue we are passionate about at PepsiCo."

The initiative forms part of PepsiCo's broader commitment to environmental awareness and inclusive community engagement through programmes like the Green Team. The company continues to strengthen its community partnerships across Cork, demonstrating that major employers can play a vital role in supporting local youth development.

The camp's success highlights the growing emphasis on inclusive sports programmes in Cork, ensuring that children of all abilities can experience the joy of GAA whilst learning important life skills.