The neighborhood bus that helps people get ahead
From chef in Greece to driver in Zoetermeer. Nikolaos’s story shows how a small neighborhood shuttle can make a big difference—not only for people looking for work, but also for older adults who want to stay active and connected.
Nikolaos had been a head chef at a Greek restaurant for a long time, but he developed a foot condition that made working in the restaurant industry no longer feasible for him. He went to the hospital regularly and had to make ends meet on welfare.
Until he ended up at De Opstap, an initiative of De Binnenbaan. Here, people who are distanced from the job market are given the opportunity to gain work experience as drivers and prepare for a regular job.
"What I liked about the restaurant, I also like here on the bus," says Nikolaos. "People tell me all kinds of things; I'm practically a social worker. If the passengers are up for it, I like to philosophize about all sorts of things. For example, how times have changed or the influence of religion."
He has now been happily driving through Rokkeveen and Dorp for half a year. Interacting with his coworkers does him good, and every trip brings him closer to his goal: a permanent job.
More Than Just Transportation
De Opstap isn't just any bus line. For many residents, this neighborhood bus provides a valuable connection in areas where public transportation is limited.
A regular passenger sees firsthand what the bus means every day: “There’s a lot of loneliness among the elderly. For them, this bus is a godsend. It lets them run errands, go to an appointment, or simply get out of the house.”
Yet the bus still regularly drives through the neighborhood with empty seats. Not because there’s no demand, but because many residents aren’t yet aware that the bus exists. Bus stop signs have now been installed, and efforts are underway to raise awareness.
An opportunity for two groups
With more passengers, everyone wins. Drivers gain more practical experience and improve their prospects in the job market. At the same time, older adults and residents with limited mobility gain an additional opportunity to get out and about on their own and maintain social connections.
For Nikolaos, every passenger means more than just a ride. It’s a step toward employment, self-confidence, and a new future in the Netherlands.
More information about routes and departure times can be found at www.deopstapzuidholland.nl and .
Watch a short video on YouTube:De Opstap
