Volunteering that brightens your day!

Marion is a host at neighborhood team de Banne in Amsterdam-Noord. Twice a week, there is an open consultation for local residents with a limited budget. Free assistance with everything: from applying for a parking permit or transferring digital money, to more complex matters such as a WMO indication. Marion ensures that everything runs smoothly: she is the first point of contact and keeps track, so everyone gets helped in turn. “It really feels like an outing and I can help people who really need it.”

How did your volunteering adventure begin?

“It actually came as a surprise. Due to a reorganization, I lost my job. A friend asked if I wanted to help in the Media Library of her school, and I did that for two years with great pleasure. When that stopped, I started looking for other volunteer work and came across neighborhood team de Banne. I was immediately hired. The nice thing about volunteering is that there is no long application process, but a personal conversation about motivation and commitment. I have been working here for thirteen years now.”

What do you like the most?

“Especially the goal of the work appeals to me: providing a place for socially weaker individuals where they can receive accessible help. I enjoy helping people and find the contact with so many different individuals very enjoyable.

I am really the point of contact. Sometimes people complain that it takes a long time, but then I calmly explain that there is only one person present. Usually, that calms them down. When I come in at twenty-five to two with my notebook, someone often runs up to me to say that he was the first. Then I say: ‘we can sing together, but not talk.’ Because visitors do not have to give their names, I work with codes, for example ‘vmt’ for woman with bag or ‘mms’ for man with stick. That sometimes leads to hilarious situations.”

Why do you keep coming back?

“It’s nice, close by, and feels like an outing twice a week. Due to circumstances, I was away for a year and a half, but upon my return, it felt like a warm bath. Most visitors know me by now, and I can sometimes reassure them, which feels really good. An extra advantage: I was the first hostess and have been able to leave my mark on the role and partly on its content.”

What is your tip for future volunteers?

“Just do it! Find something that suits you and that you enjoy.”

Do you also want to discover what volunteering can bring you?

Viewall possibilities onlineoffind your match in one conversation – We are happy to help you on your way!Interview: Martina Koster
Photo: Marcel Jansen