A Look Back at NLdoet in Palenstein: Working Together to Make the Neighborhood More Beautiful and Welcoming!

The afternoon began with opening remarks by co-organizer Christine Snels-Advokaat, followed by a celebratory speech by Councilman Bouke Velzen. With over 60 concerned residents and volunteers in attendance, the “cigarette butt pole” for the cigarette-free canal was then unveiled. The first cigarette butt was symbolically deposited by Claudia van Eck, who enjoys her cigarettes but keeps the neighborhood clean.

After that, the participants eagerly got to work and headed out into the neighborhood with the litter cleanup coordinators to pick up trash. Meanwhile, another group of volunteers worked in the community garden to get it ready for spring.

Inside at Piëzo as well, under the guidance of social and cultural worker Gioia Conte, all sorts of activities took place:

• In the Atrium, planters were filled with new plants and flower bulbs.
• In the kitchen, stacks of pancakes were being made.
• Tables were set up in the main hall so that everyone could enjoy a well-deserved meal together afterward.

Volunteer Elly Boots said, "I get my energy from all the people around me here at the Piëzo Center."

It was a very successful day focused on collaboration, community building, and volunteerism for the neighborhood. Thank you to all the volunteers, the organizations, the Oranje Fonds, and Dirk for making this afternoon possible!

For more information or to get involved in social initiatives, please email chrivisnels@hetnet.nl.