ROTTERDAM, 12 March 2025 – Thousands of volunteers will take part in NLdoet, the Netherlands' largest volunteer campaign, set to take place on 14 and 15 March, with several activities happening in Rotterdam.
NLdoet encourages volunteering across Rotterdam
On 14 and 15 March, thousands of volunteers across the Netherlands will participate in the 21st edition of NLdoet (short for Nederland Doet, meaning The Netherlands Does), a nationwide volunteer campaign organised by the Oranje Fonds. The initiative allows people to experience volunteering in an accessible way while supporting their local communities.
During the two-day event, over 7,200 activities will take place nationwide, including in Rotterdam. Activities range from cooking and dining with older individuals or those feeling isolated, to cleaning and refurbishing community centres (buurtkamers) and local meeting spaces. In addition, volunteers will help with gardening projects in community gardens, healthcare institutions, and mental health care facilities.
The benefits of volunteering
The Oranje Fonds aims to demonstrate that volunteering offers mutual benefits. Volunteers not only support others but often gain valuable experiences themselves. Volunteering can be educational, enjoyable, and provide opportunities to meet new people. NLdoet offers an easy and informal way to explore volunteering. According to the Oranje Fonds, one in four NLdoet participants continues to volunteer after the event.
Growth in volunteer participation
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, participation in NLdoet has steadily increased. Last year, approximately 65,000 volunteers joined the campaign, and organisers hope to surpass that figure this year.
“Volunteers play an essential role in our society,” said Sandra Jetten, director of the Oranje Fonds. “Many organisations rely on volunteers to ensure no one feels alone. Through NLdoet, we aim to provide people with an opportunity to engage in volunteering and see how they can positively impact their community."
Caribbean participation
In addition to activities in the Netherlands, the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom will participate in their own editions. Events such as ARUBA DOET, BON DOET, CURA DOET, SXM DOET, SABA DOET, and STATIA DOET will take place on 16 and 17 May.
How to join
Those interested in participating can find a list of local activities on the official NLdoet website.
_large.jpg)
