Nadia and Mohammed present ‘Together Strong’

They are not only partners for life, but also for the community center ‘Samen Kracht’ on the Haarlemmerweg. Nadia works shifts here daily, and Mohammed also works there – in addition to his own cleaning company – until 10 o’clock in the evening. Quite challenging, and they have been doing this for years. Yet they look fresh and lively, clearly proud of what they have achieved together here. What makes their volunteer work so enjoyable that they are willing to do this for it?After Mohammed had been visiting the community center for years, he started the foundation six years ago to ensure its continuity. Four years ago, his wife Nadia also joined the board. Now, the community center ‘Samen Kracht’ has grown into a vibrant hub for developing talents, exercising, and socializing with neighbors. Every hour of the day, seven days a week, there is always something to do. Cooking classes are organized, sewing courses are given, you can participate in yoga, aerobics, running and walking clubs, but also if you want to improve your Dutch or simply need help with something.

A little push in the right direction works wonders

Mohammed: “It makes me happy when I can help people. Because we know the way to support services, we can give them a crucial push in the right direction. We are an anchor, a confidant for many visitors. Whether it’s work-related issues, domestic violence, people without a stable place to live, if you don’t speak the language and don’t get help, you quickly end up in a difficult situation. It’s great that we can do something for them and help them move forward with their lives.”

Nadia: “I am also very proud of our language lessons. Especially women who are completely isolated due to their poor Dutch, they really come alive by learning the language. You see them grow and shine, it truly is the key to more self-reliance.”

“Our commitment is unpaid, our reward priceless”

More connection between residents

“We want to provide a safe, clean, and welcoming place for vulnerable people from our neighborhood. Due to poverty and a lack of knowledge of the Dutch language, these people do not easily integrate into society. The activities promote more connection between residents. And the nice thing is, there is always a good atmosphere, everything goes in good harmony, and there is actually never any quarreling. It just sorts itself out, people get to know each other, and new visitors quickly adopt those social norms.”

Homework guidance and girls club

New activities are constantly being added, such as the recent homework assistance during the corona lockdown. Nadia: “Many children do not have a good laptop or computer at home to attend online classes. And homeschooling by parents becomes even more difficult if they do not speak Dutch or speak it poorly.
And there is still a lot in the pipeline. Nadia: “I want to start a girls’ club for the age group 10 to 15 years: makeup, jewelry making, fashion shows, mosaics, being creatively busy together. We are still looking for.”volunteers to assist with our activitiesEspecially with homework assistance, we could use extra help. Ideas for new activities are also very welcome.”Interview: Sonja Remkes
Photos: Jackie Mulder

Want to become a volunteer?

If you feel like joining ‘Samen Kracht’, feel free to drop by at Haarlemmerweg 645-B.
All volunteer opportunities throughout Amsterdam (more than a thousand!) can be found here.