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Gelderland | October 5, 2020

Intermediary Stijn Brokx: “I often see a burden lifted from the family by the Youth Fund for Sports & Culture.”

In the "Who are our intermediaries?" section, we introduce the top performers at JFSC Gelderland, using short questions. This time, it's Stijn Brokx.

Tell us something about yourself?

I am 29 years old and have been working for Welzijn West Betuwe for about 6.5 years. In my daily life I am away for three days a week. You'll find me on the football pitch every week. Besides showing off my skills on the pitch myself, I've been coaching various select teams for 14 years. During the coronavirus shutdown, I discovered padel, a fantastically fast and tactical racket sport. In my professional life, I'm active as the coordinator of the neighborhood sports coaches and cultural coaches at Welzijn West Betuwe. As a project leader, I'm also involved in a youth project in West Betuwe and am the local contact person for the Youth Sports & Culture Fund.

Why are you an intermediary?

In my role as a community sports coach, I see many children from families in West Betuwe. So, serving as an intermediary/LAP for the Youth Fund can be valuable in this regard. Furthermore, one of the goals of a community sports coach is to make sports accessible to everyone in the municipality of West Betuwe. How wonderful would it be to be able to help children participate in sports at local clubs through a Youth Fund application?

Why is the Youth Fund for Sports & Culture so important?

In my opinion, all children deserve the opportunity to participate in sports and culture in the Netherlands. The Youth Fund makes this possible through a relatively simple action. I often see a burden lifted from families by the compensation the Youth Fund Sports & Culture can offer.

Why are sports and culture so important for children?

First and foremost, the health benefits of sports and culture, because exercise and being active are simply healthy. I also find the social component particularly valuable. Sports clubs and cultural providers are a breeding ground for social connections and learning to explore your surroundings.

What is your best moment?

I once helped a single mother apply for her son's support. She was overwhelmed and so relieved when I explained all the possibilities offered by the Youth Fund for Sports and Culture. After everything was arranged, her son started playing sports at a local club. I even received a photo of her son playing sports…he radiated joy!

Do you have any tips for other intermediaries?

If you're left with a feeling of unease after a conversation, seek collaboration with healthcare professionals who can also help the family. I've seen several instances where we've been able to help families in other ways by raising the alarm following a Youth Fund application.

What is your wish for the future?

I hope we can also create an opportunity to establish an adult fund in West Betuwe. I see many people who have to stop participating in sports and cultural activities after turning 18 because the Youth Fund stops contributing after that age in West Betuwe.

Interested in becoming an intermediary? Read more and register:

Become an intermediary