May 16, 2022

Choose a club: every child is a member of a club

Today, Monday, May 16th, we're launching "Choose a Club." Participation and being seen are things every child deserves. At a club, you make friends, learn to be considerate of each other, gain self-confidence, win and lose together, and forget your worries. And most importantly: you're together and have fun. That's why being a member of a club is so important. Dancing, playing soccer, or kickboxing are fun and healthy. Sports and culture are important for the physical, mental, and social development of children and young people. That's why we cover the membership fees or tuition if parents are unable to attend, so all children can participate.  

It seems so normal to watch football, street dance, kickboxing or guitar lessons to go. Yet, for 272,000 children and young people (that is 1 in 11) in the Netherlands, this is not self-evident.. Their Parents can't afford to pay club membership fees or tuition (source: SCP). These children, who face financial stress at home, benefit greatly from an outlet like sports or culture. Because oAt the club, you belong, regardless of your home situation. We want to remove the financial hurdles of joining a club.to takeThat's why we say: Choose a club! Not enough money? We'll pay.

Director Monique Maks: "For years, far too many children and young people in our country have been growing up in families with financial worries. Due to rising energy, grocery, and fuel prices, more and more families are struggling to make ends meet. They can no longer afford their children's sports clubs or cultural activities. Playing football, dancing, kickboxing, or making music together—in short, being a member of a club—is essential in the lives of children and young people. We encourage families with financial worries to contact us so we can give their children the opportunity to remain or become members of a sports or cultural club."

We want parents through 'Choose a club' lets you know that help is available. Via the website kieseenclub.nl we bring them in contact with an intermediary (for example a teacher, neighborhood sports coach, employee of a neighborhood team or Stichting Leergeld) who An can apply for the family. Together we will then ensure That financial support is available. So that children can play sports, dance, or make music, join a club, and participate.