How Valesca helps parents regain trust in themselves

Sometimes one extra pair of hands makes all the difference. Valesca (33) knows that like no one else. In addition to her job as a hostess at a gym and her studies, she visits a single mother with a toddler weekly through Home-Start. With her support, she helps this mother gain more confidence and enjoy motherhood again. Valesca: “There is no prior education to become a father or mother; you really learn that in practice. That’s why it’s nice when someone gives you a little push in the right direction from time to time.”Valesca finds it valuable to be able to make a difference for parents. Over the years, she has helped various families and has seen how much impact a helping hand can have. The mother she is currently supporting has little help and – apart from her parents – no safety net. “She is constantly ‘on’ and can hardly enjoy motherhood. With my support, she has gained more confidence and space to enjoy it.”

What do I actually want?

Valesca lived in Aruba for ten years and worked there as a preschool teacher. Two and a half years ago, she moved back to the Netherlands, mainly to be closer to her family, especially her grandparents. Her personal development also played an important role: the Netherlands seemed to offer more opportunities. “I first took the time to discover what I really want,” Valesca says. “I knew I wanted to do something with children, for example in youth protection.” Her volunteer work at Home-Start, through Humanitas, helped her to get a clear picture of her future. In the meantime, she is following the mbo-4 training to become a social worker in the evenings.

You learn to set boundaries

Home-Start is a project of Humanitas. Every family goes through tough times and sometimes needs a little support in parenting. The program is for families with at least one child up to 7 years old. A suitable volunteer is sought for each family – and a suitable family for each volunteer. With a bit of luck and just the right timing for signing up, Valesca was able to participate in the Home-Start course right away. There, you learn among other things how to position yourself as a volunteer towards parents. Valesca: “You learn, for example, to set boundaries, so that it is clear what both parties can expect from each other.”

What does it bring you?

“It gives me a sense of pride,” Valesca smiles. “I am grateful to witness how a mother regains her strength. That both mother and child shine when I come by. I am happy to be a safety net that she can lean on.” Of course, you sometimes encounter challenges. At first, Valesca searched for the right way to set boundaries, but she received a lot of support from Home-Start. The introductory course is important, and in addition, a dedicated coordinator supports both the volunteer and the parent throughout the entire process. “You are well taken care of, and you can always turn to someone. Besides the volunteer work, there are a few intervisions with other volunteers a year. There are also regular courses and workshops offered, as well as activities like team outings, outings with the families, and a Christmas gathering.”

Valesca’s dream

“In February 2027, I will finish my studies and hope to start my career in this sector. It would be fantastic to find a workplace where I can share my knowledge and experience AND further develop myself. Who knows, this interview might lead to a nice invitation?”

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Interview: Thecla Groot Koerkamp
Photo: Jackie Mulder