The Social Guests Network
Growth by doing something meaningful for others
In what way can young people be engaged in how society develops? By connecting young volunteers to people who could use a helping hand. The Social Guests Network in Amersfoort achieves just that and shares their findings.
Young people aged between 14 and 30 – so-called ‘social guests’ – provide help to city residents in a variety of ways. They might help them weed their garden or do some shopping. Or by taking a walk together or having a weekly coffee. In this way, they engage with people they would otherwise be unlikely to meet. The same applies to those being helped. The cohesive bond in the city grows, loneliness diminishes.
Low entry barriers
It is usually not easy to get young people – given their stage in life – to volunteer. The reason why they join the network is due to its target group-oriented approach, which is very accessible. The network appeals to young people in the sense that volunteering can foster their personal development. It is also about the personal impact of doing something meaningful for others. Getting involved is easy because you can start with a one-off job.
To share knowledge
It is also good that Sociale Gasten is sharing its knowledge with other organisations in Amersfoort, about how to recruit and deploy young volunteers. This strengthens existing structures and organisations in the city.