Possibly a new youth hub in Palestine

Since the closure of the youth meeting place at Rakkersveld 147 in 2018, there is no longer a specific location for young people in Palenstein. Signals from the Youth and Safety Team and neighborhood partners and young people themselves show that there is a growing need for a meeting place of their own. The municipality has therefore recently developed a plan for the youth hub 'Gelijk' together with Stichting voor Jong Zoetermeer and various social and cultural organizations in the neighborhood. A youth hub can contribute to a safe and positive development of the youth in the neighborhood.

Rakkersveld 247

The building at Rakkersveld 247 is a suitable location for this and is currently empty. It is located in a place where youth nuisance is experienced, so that guidance and activities have a direct effect. The location in a residential area contributes to social safety and is also centrally located and easily accessible within Palenstein.

Alderman Blansjaar (Culture): "The youth hub offers young people in Palenstein a safe place to develop themselves and discover talents. Art and culture play an important role in this. By working together with the neighborhood, the young people and local organizations, we create an inspiring environment for everyone."

Youth Hub Equal

Stichting Voor Jong Zoetermeer will be the main user and will develop a wide range of activities in collaboration with other organizations and the young people themselves. The project 'Jongerenhub Gelijk' offers young people a safe place where they can develop their talents. There will be activities in the field of music, lifestyle, e-sports and art & culture. In addition, collaboration will be sought with neighborhood organizations to stimulate encounters between young and old.

Melanie de Vries-Kromoredjo of the foundation for Young Zoetermeer: "The hub offers support in the areas of mental health, creative expression and work preparation. Young people are helped on their path to self-reliance and encouraged to take responsibility for their future. This is done by strengthening their qualities, developing cooperation skills and building social resilience. In addition, they learn values, standards and discipline, so that they can apply these in their daily lives and future."

The council proposal will be discussed in the municipal council later this year. Local residents will also be included in a participation process before implementation starts.