Score karma points & boost your CV

Doing volunteer work alongside studying has taken off in recent years. Not surprising, as it is, for example, a beautiful and accessible way to score karma points, develop your talents, meet new people, and become happier (as research shows). Four students share what they do and what it brings them.

Xena – Dancing with the Elderly

“In my personal life, I always want to help everyone. To have more time for myself, I volunteer at The Dance Palace. Loud music is played in a nursing home, and I approach them and ask: do you want to dance? Even people who are not very mobile move to the music. Because I am so cheerful and enthusiastic here, I forget about my daily worries for a while.”

Aaron – pouring beers at a community center

(Photo of Aaron at the top of this article)“I come from Afghanistan. When I first arrived here, I couldn’t speak the language and I felt down. I was a bit lonely and truly felt like a foreigner. Fortunately, that has changed, partly because of my volunteer work at a cultural community center. Besides pouring beers, I sometimes help organize events. It was difficult at the beginning. I didn’t know the names of all the drinks, how to pour beer, or how to serve wine. Luckily, I could ask a lot of questions. This helped improve my Dutch. It’s very enjoyable to work here. You’re always with people, there’s always music, and there’s always a party. I don’t really feel like a refugee anymore. I study, work here, I’m independent, and I feel at home in Amsterdam.”

Finn – Basketball Volunteer

“In Amsterdam, you have many different ethnicities, but during play, that boundary fades and all inequality disappears. Everything comes together. It’s so cool to see. Once a week, I stand as a leader on a basketball court in Amsterdam East and try to engage as many children as possible to join 3×3 basketball. Of course, I make sure that everything continues in good harmony. Taking responsibility, being flexible, and making decisions (daringly) are skills that come in handy on the playing field, but are also useful in everyday life beyond.”

Anouk – Hostess at the Stedelijk Museum

“I find it important to broaden my horizons. To do things that I simply enjoy, not because they are good for my career, CV, or wallet. I have been going to museums all my life, so when I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Stedelijk, I didn’t hesitate. I inform visitors about the artworks on display, about children’s treasure hunts, the audio tours, or about the family lab. This is truly a great place to further develop yourself.”

Interested in doing volunteer work?

There are more than 1000 cool possibilities in Amsterdam. From one afternoon per year to a few hours per week. What makes you happy? We are happy to help you further.
All options are available onlinewhere you can easily search based on your preferences.
Feel free to come by anytime.Attend one of the consultation hours in the city, to look together at what matches your talents, desires, and schedule.