Status holders as volunteers

I just want to warn you, you might need to read the following two sentences a few times:There are volunteer organizations that make a difference in people’s lives by using them as volunteers. There are volunteer organizations that make a difference in people’s lives by using volunteers.A subtle but very significant difference. And if you’ve thought about it for a moment, I hear many volunteer organizations shouting: We do both!

Give meaning

More and more recognized refugees, refugees with a residence permit, are settling in the Nieuw West district and want to get involved as volunteers. Why? In short; because they want to give meaning to their new life. At the same time, we see that volunteer organizations do not always think of offering volunteer work to this group of Amsterdam residents. Perhaps it’s in that subtle difference. It is sometimes difficult to make a difference in two lives.

Loyal

The status holders from Amsterdam who are motivated to build a relationship with their new city are loyal to the organization where they volunteer. They recognize the opportunities that volunteering offers. They have perseverance, are eager to learn, and bring their own knowledge and skills.Mo, who got a house in Zaandam, still travels to [destination] every week.areorganization in Amsterdam to do volunteer work.Refugees with a residence permit have added value to your organization. Working together on the work floor promotes connection, understanding, and a broad perspective. Connection that arises more quickly in a volunteer organization than on the street. A different work culture, talent, and experience bring surprise and questions. Why do we do what we do? Asking yourself questions keeps you sharp, flexible, and engaged.In the kitchen, during meal preparations, we discuss all sorts of things above our cutting boards. Where you can learn the language, the meaning of certain dishes, and why we need to be ready with the mise en place on time. Robbert, Resto van Harte

Safe space

What makes working with status holders successful? The preparations of chef Robbert form asafe space, a place where you have space and attention to communicate about daily things, informally get used to each other, cultivate mutual understanding, and build a personal bond. Are you completely yourself when you don’t speak the language? Searching for words or the fear of making mistakes often lead to a first impression that is not quite right.

Patience and taking that into account helps refugees thaw and gradually reveal themselves. What would asafe spacecould be in your organization? Having a fifteen-minute coffee break or working in a buddy pair can achieve the same effect.

Newcomers are an interesting group of volunteers. Look carefully at your organization to see what you ask for, wish for, and expect, and what you can offer. What is the purpose of using volunteers? Discover during the introductory conversation what someone can contribute, what they want to learn, and what support you can offer. A beautifully diverse group of volunteers, every Amsterdam volunteer organization would want that, right?

Getting started with status holders?

Would you like to explore the possibilities of status holders as volunteers in your organization together? That is possible. Call for the Nieuw West district withJelle Guijt.

About this pieceThis piece is a report of a meeting on October 5, 2020, on this topic. We spoke with Kim Oomen (Combiwel), Nienke Schouten (Refugee Company), Valerie van Lanschot (NewBees), Robbert van Overveld (Resto van Harte), Faten Abu Kadan, and Eva Bos (Vrijwilligers Centrale Amsterdam).