Volunteer with a creative heart
KUNSTaandenRIJN Woerden was set up in 2018. They offer Woerden creatives who are active in the visual arts a stage through all kinds of activities and events. For example, think of the RijnKUNSTprijs, the KUNSTkajuit and the RijnKUNSTroute. KUNSTaandenRIJN has a number of volunteers who help with the daily ins and outs of the foundation. Elly is one of them. She was closely involved in the establishment of the foundation and is now treasurer.
“I've always loved working and I'm a real busy bee. After I retired, I wanted to continue this and started looking for a new project to sink my teeth into. This project became KUNSTaandenRIJN: a place in Woerden where visual artists of all levels and backgrounds can find support or a stage. For example, the RijnKUNSTroute was a fun and accessible way for creatives to show their work to the general public. The same applies to the RijnKUNSTprijs. Visual artists from Woerden can submit their works, after which they will be assessed by a jury. This year's winning work will be announced on July 23. And eventually all works will be exhibited in the library. A wonderful opportunity!”
I think it's important that volunteers at KUNSTaandenRIN really do what they want to do!
“I think it's important that volunteers at KUNSTaandenRIN really do what they want to do. Together with the volunteer we look for their own place within the foundation. For example, we are now looking for a volunteer who wants to help with the restart of the KUNSTcafé, a volunteer who coordinates the courses (drawing, painting, etching, etc.) and a volunteer who can help with making the monthly newsletter. But if someone would like to contribute to this creative sector and do it in their own way or in another way, we are of course open to that. As long as the volunteer ends up in a place where his or her heart lies. That is the most important."
Are you one of the volunteers KUNSTaandenRIN is looking for? Or would you like some more information about volunteering at this foundation? Inform or apply via the website: www.kunstaandenrijn.nl/contact/ .
dora's story
It really feels good! Dora is a volunteer at Klein Houtdijk in Kamerik. Klein Houtdijk is a small-scale residential center on a farm in the polder between Woerden and Kamerik. There is room for thirteen elderly people. The chickens walk on the terrace and the residents have a view of the cows and sheep. Inside, the residents meet in the cozy living room with open kitchen. Dora provides breakfast for the residents on Friday and Saturday and maintains the vegetable garden. “My in-laws were one of the first residents of Klein Houtdijk. The atmosphere appealed to me and I got to know the employees. I felt at home here and missed it when my in-laws passed away. When I was asked to become a volunteer I had to think about it for a while. What would it be like now that my in-laws were no longer there? But in the end I didn't regret it for a moment. We are now five years further. What gives me great satisfaction is the fact that I can relieve the caregivers of Klein Houtdijk. They can then give more attention to the residents. It really gives a good feeling.” It really feels good! “I come in at eight o'clock. I prepare breakfast for anyone who feels like it at that moment. Sometimes three people are already seated when I come in, sometimes no one at all. And around ten, eleven o'clock everyone has eaten and my job for the day is done. Last March, with the first lockdown, I was no longer allowed to provide breakfast and I ended up sitting at home. That wasn't for me at all. I was allowed to work outside. Thus the idea of the vegetable garden was born. Soon I will finally be able to get back to work inside. Baking pancakes for the residents, helping them with food: I'm looking forward to it!” Would you also like to contribute as a volunteer at Klein Houtdijk? Contact Caroline: info@kleinhoutdijk.nl or 0348 48 80 80. More information can be found on their website: www.kleinhoutdijk.nl. Share these stories and inspire others to help too! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Whatsapp Forward
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