Volunteering as peace work: building bridges between the past and the future

In the lead-up to May 4 and 5, Meike from the Volunteer Center Amsterdam (VCA) received a tour of the Resistance Museum Amsterdam from a special volunteer. She is 19 years old, comes from Germany, and has arrived in Amsterdam through Aktion Sühnezeichen Friedensdienste (ASF). This organization has been committed for over sixty years to commemoration, reconciliation, and peace in places that have suffered under Nazi crimes. Every year, young volunteers are sent out to contribute to human rights and solidarity.

With visible engagement, Johanna talks about the traces of the persecution of Jews in the Plantage neighborhood. About the confronting history of a city where administration was used to exclude people—like the map with dots that marked Jewish residents. But also about courage and resistance. About the blowing up of the population register, where everything was done to prevent victims. About the fire department that deliberately delayed and caused extra water damage to destroy registration cards. In addition, she shares impressive stories of rescue and solidarity. Like the director of Artis who created hiding places, and students who managed to smuggle hundreds of children out of the Jewish nursery—at moments when a passing tram obscured the view of the guards.

This brings the hair

Volunteering runs like a red thread through Johanna’s life. From class representative and youth parliament member to swimming instructor and her current role in the museum. It has brought her a lot: new perspectives, encounters with people outside her own living environment, and personal growth.

“I notice that I have become more spontaneous and take initiative more quickly. I am confident that together you always find a way.”

For Johanna, volunteering is more than just doing something for someone else. It is also a way to connect and find a place in a new city. Volunteering can start small but have a big impact—on yourself and on the world around you. Sometimes it is even a form of peace work.

Do you also want to commit to an inclusive society, meet new people, and develop yourself?

View the options on our job board of make a appointment with one of our intermediaries.

Photos: Huub Zeeman