Royal award for Anita van Santvoord
Ms. Anita van Santvoord was appointed Member in the Order of Orange-Nassau for her years of voluntary service. She received this royal decoration from Mayor Michel Bezuijen, who visited her at thrift store Het Goed in Zoetermeer, where she is active as a volunteer. Because she could not attend the traditional 'Lintjesregen' on April 25, she received the news of her appointment at the time via a video message from the mayor. The delayed official presentation took place on Tuesday, July 8.
"Mrs. Van Santvoord is always there for others. Especially for people who - for a while or longer - are less able to participate. For people who need a little help, a chat or a smile. With her commitment she really makes a difference," Mayor Bezuijen said during the presentation.
Versatile volunteering
Ms. Van Santvoord receives this honorable award because of her years of versatile volunteer work. For example, she helped care for chronically ill children at Mappa Mundo for 12 years. She was also active in the emergency room of the LangeLand Hospital - now the HagaZiekenhuis Zoetermeer - where she supported the care staff. She also devoted herself to De Zonnebloem, organized cooking workshops at the Oosterkerk and various activities for elementary school children. Currently, she is an active volunteer at thrift store Het Goed, where she has been giving clothing, books, toys, dishes and appliances a second life for two years now.
