To the Youth Fund Together we look for more intermediaries in Waalwijk page

Working together to find more intermediaries in Waalwijk | January 21, 2023

Working together to find more intermediaries in Waalwijk

On average, every school class contains two or three children who grow up in a family that it is struggling financially. There is no money for sports or creative activities. The Youth Fund Sports & Culture Brabant offers them financial assistance, but too many children still remain "under the radar." That's why the fund, together with GO Waalwijk, is looking for ambassadors and intermediaries in the municipality of Waalwijk. "Together, we can identify more children and young people who could use a helping hand."

"In the municipality of Waalwijk, quite a few families are already receiving help from the Brabant Youth Fund for Sport & Culture. But we know that the number of children growing up in low-income families is unfortunately much higher," says Francesco van Mierlo, account manager for the fund in the municipality of Waalwijk. "And especially in these times of high energy costs and inflation, we expect even more families to face financial hardship. To reach all families who need it, it's important that we raise awareness of the Brabant Youth Fund for Sport & Culture. That's why we're looking for new intermediaries in the municipality of Waalwijk. People who, through their work—for example, at school—deal with children and parents and can therefore pick up on signals that indicate a lack of money. Think of the strikingly frequent 'forgotten' packed lunches, the lack of a proper winter coat, or sneakers that are too small. Our goal is for every primary and secondary school to have at least one Youth Fund intermediary. A teacher is close to the child and the parents. That relationship of trust is important, because many people who struggle to make ends meet are embarrassed by it."

Intermediaries wanted

Together with GO Waalwijk, Van Mierlo invited staff from community organizations, education professionals, community sports coaches, and other people who work extensively with children and young people to an information meeting. Attendance exceeded expectations, with over forty people in attendance. Peter Overeem, coordinator of the Brabant Youth Fund for Sports & Culture, explained to attendees how the fund works. "As an intermediary, you can really make a difference," Overeem emphasized. In a few simple steps, you can help alleviate some of your financial worries. You're a vital link between your family and the Youth Fund. By submitting an application to the fund, you ensure a child or young person can attend judo, music, gymnastics, or theater classes. Submitting such an application is straightforward and doesn't take much time. Once approved, the Brabant Youth Fund for Sports & Culture will transfer the membership fee or course fee directly to the club or cultural institution, allowing the child to participate. John van den Hoven, alderman for sports and culture in the municipality of Waalwijk, emphasized the importance of this. "Sports and culture contribute significantly to the development of children and young people. At the club, they make friends, learn skills, have fun, and gain self-confidence."

Apply or register as an intermediary

The Brabant Youth Sports and Culture Fund helps children aged 0 to 18 by covering their tuition or membership fees, as well as any materials needed, such as sportswear or an instrument. The Youth Sports and Culture Fund is a national organization affiliated with municipal and provincial funds. Peter Overeem: "230 municipalities are affiliated, including Waalwijk. There's a separate fund for children living there. The municipality contributes annually. Last year, the Youth Sports and Culture Fund also received several donations for children in the Waalwijk municipality, including from Lions Club Waalwijk and Allround Makelaardij Waalwijk."

In the municipality of Waalwijk, the neighborhood sports coaches, the Waalwijk Arts Center, the Tavenu, and the De Strohalm Foundation are active as intermediaries. Go to www.gowaalwijk.nl/jeugdfonds-waalwijk For contact details and information on applying for a contribution, please contact: Anyone wishing to become an intermediary or ambassador in the municipality of Waalwijk can send an email to info@gowaalwijk.nl for more information.