How volunteering helps belonging in a city

The Expatriate Archive Centre collects and preserves the life stories of expatriates, their families, and repatriates worldwide in their original languages. Their collection includes journals and diaries, scrapbooks and photographs, video and audio recordings, letters and emails, blogs, paperwork and more. They exist to facilitate research that promotes and enhances a better understanding of expatriate life. Whether you are an expatriate with a story to share, looking for volunteering opportunities, researching expatriation, or simply curious about what they do, join their Information Morning and learn more about their unique archive! When: Wednesday, 3 June 2026 from10:30 – 12:00 Where: Paramaribostraat 20, 2585 GN The Hague (directions on Google Maps) The event is free, but spaces are limited. Please sign up for the event via the link above by 1 June 2026. If you have any questions, send them an e-mail on [email protected].

Volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways to give back, but beyond donating your time, there are many creative and impactful ways to help non-profits raise essential funds and collect in natura donations. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or just getting started, expanding how you contribute can make a real difference. One of the easiest ways to amplify your impact is by tapping into your workplace. Many employers offer matching gift programs, where they match donations made by employees to eligible nonprofits. Some even match volunteer hours with financial contributions. Taking a few minutes to check your company’s policy can potentially double your support for a cause you care about. Another powerful approach is organizing or contributing to charitable auctions. These events thrive on donated items and services, and the possibilities are endless. You might offer a skill like photography, tutoring, or graphic design, or donate items such as handmade crafts, gift baskets, or event tickets. Local businesses are often happy to contribute as well, especially when it helps build community goodwill. Approaching them to get donations for a raffle sale would be valuable to organizations. Nowadays, sharing online fundraising campaigns is also incredibly effective. Crowdfunding platforms make it easy for organizations to tell their stories and gather support. By sharing these campaigns across your social networks, you can help them reach a much wider audience. Adding a personal message about why the cause matters to you can make your post even more compelling. Of course, traditional donation drives remain just as important. Small Dutch nonprofits also need volunteers to participate in local event markets where they sell second-hand items. They also have stands during Christmas markets to build awareness and find new donors. Going door to door to collect funds for nonprofits is very common but very regulated in The Netherlands. Collecting food items for local food banks or organizing clothing drives can directly support people in need. These efforts are especially impactful when coordinated with community groups, schools, or workplaces, turning small individual contributions into something much larger. Fundraising doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, it is not only grant writing and making a financial gift yourself. It’s also about finding opportunities that fit your strengths and resources. Whether you’re leveraging your professional network, donating your talents, or simply spreading the word online. Every action counts. By thinking creatively and encouraging others to get involved, you can help charitable organizations continue their vital work and make a lasting difference in your community.

Excited about attending an upcoming volunteer job fair? Preparing for this event can make the difference between a casual visit and a truly meaningful experience. With a bit of planning and the right mindset, you can turn a few hours into valuable connections, insights, and opportunities. Start by researching the organisations that will be attending. Volunteer The Hague always publishes a banner with the logos of all organisations which are going to attend, giving you the chance to identify causes that align with your interests and values. Whether you are into about environmental conservation, education, healthcare, or community outreach, knowing which organisations to prioritise helps you use your time efficiently. Take a few notes on the groups that stand out so you can ask informed questions when you meet their representatives. Be sure to ask them whether they will contact you or you should contact them and within what time window. That said, don’t limit yourself only to your pre-selected list. One of the biggest advantages of a volunteer fair is discovery. Make an effort to introduce yourself at a variety of stands, even those that did not initially catch your attention. You might come across a cause you had never considered before but feel genuinely excited about after a short conversation. Keep your introduction simple: who you are, what interests you, and why you are attending. They will be speaking to hundreds of visitors that day and need to be efficient. Don't forget to engage with other attendees. Volunteer fairs are not just about organisations, they are also about meeting other people who share a desire to contribute. Strike up conversations while waiting in line or sitting in common areas. These interactions can lead to new perspectives, shared experiences, or even friendships. Remember to enjoy the atmosphere as well. Many volunteer job fairs are designed to be welcoming and lively, offering food and refreshments, music performances, and sometimes even interactive workshops. Take breaks, recharge, and participate in these activities as they are part of what makes the experience enjoyable and memorable. Finally, take advantage of the structured elements of the event. Welcome speeches, guest speakers, and curated programming are there to guide you and highlight key themes. With a wide variety of causes represented, the fair is carefully designed to be both efficient and inspiring. By preparing in advance and staying open-minded, you can make the most of every moment. Remember, if you do not find a vacancy on the day of the fair, keep visiting Volunteer The Hague's online volunteer platform. Every week brings different opportunities as not all organisations in their network can attend the fair