A serene tranquility that helps to stay balanced

Kimbo van Stralendorff was homeless for only one day in his life, but that was enough to experience how vulnerable you are at that moment. “It taught me that not everything is about money; satisfaction comes from helping others.”

What do you do in your daily life?

“I volunteer at The Homeless Union and the Nicolaasbasiliek. I have always worked as a carpenter and furniture maker, but after falling ill, it became clear that I could no longer fully engage in physically demanding work. I found it difficult to stay at home; I had the need to make a difference again. What I didn’t know back then is how valuable volunteer work can be.”

What motivates you to do volunteer work here?

“The Nicolaas Basilica is a place that has always attracted me. I used to live nearby and would visit regularly. As a ‘atmosphere manager,’ I make sure that tourists and other visitors wait until the service is over before entering the basilica. I enjoy getting visitors excited about this beautiful church in the heart of Amsterdam. I am constantly learning more about the rich history and significance of this place, and I am regularly ‘trained’ to inform visitors as best as possible.

At the Homeless Union, I am active in the mailroom. Here, homeless people – about 500 individuals – can collect their mail. This is a crucial address for them for official mail and communication. Recently, I was promoted to coordinator of mail distribution, a role that gives me a lot of satisfaction. I see myself as a small part of a larger process, but one that makes a difference. The contact with the homeless is what makes my work so special. I share their concerns, but also their beautiful moments. It feels good to be there for them.”

My perspective on volunteering has completely changed

What makes you happy?

“I derive a tremendous amount of joy and satisfaction from interacting with people. It fascinates me to listen to them, share stories, and be able to make a difference for them. Most homeless people come to collect their mail happily, but the most beautiful moment is when someone comes in and says:“This is the last time I come here to collect my mail! I have my own house!”We celebrate this with cake – a small party where everyone is involved. At the basilica, I feel valuable because I help visitors discover our beautiful city. And there I also experience a serene peace that helps me stay balanced.”

What is the most important lesson you have learned in your life?

“It may sound like a cliché, but I keep realizing how important it is to have a home. I have only been homeless for one day in my life, but that was enough to experience how vulnerable you are. It taught me that not everything is about money; satisfaction comes from helping others.

Another unexpected lesson I have learned as a coordinator of mail distribution is that meetings are not only necessary, but can also be enjoyable and useful. Where I used to dread them, I now understand how important it is to discuss together and achieve goals.

Furthermore, my view on volunteering has completely changed. I used to think that volunteers were just ‘hanging around’ and would never get a paid job. Now I see that many do this alongside their work, purely from the heart. Or that retirees see it as a valuable use of their time.”

Want to become a volunteer?

Enour online job boardYou will find 1001 possibilities.Or come by one of our consultations without any obligationThank you.Interview: Melita Bacic
Photo: Mark Rammers