Volunteer Interview: Amy van der Drift

American-born psychologist, educator and business owner, Amy van der Drift-Naudet, moved to The Netherlands in 1988.  Following her studies in International Business and Marketing in Leiden, Amy lived and worked in The Hague, where she developed a love for the city and a desire to be of service to the local community. Extending her work supervising student teachers in preschools and daycare, Amy created an international community center in nearby Wassenaar, complete with childcare and language lessons by day, as well as yoga, tai chi, fine arts, and extended support for mothers-to-be, even twelve-step meetings, also in the evenings. Her aim was to serve the international women's community and young expat families, as they adjusted to life in The Netherlands. Amy worked closely with several international schools and organizations in The Hague, and is proud to have made a difference in the lives of so many in The Netherlands. Today her business is 30+ years-old and serves the now much changed expat community, as well as the local Dutch community. Amy's commitment to volunteer service that began at a young age in the US, has continued into her retirement.

Which organisation did you volunteer for? What is their mission?

I began volunteering through Volunteer The Hague several years ago, and I especially enjoyed the opportunity to work with teenagers. I chose The World In Your Classroom, a Gemeente Den Haag and PEP Den Haag program introducing Dutch high school students to people from around the world. I enjoyed speaking with the students and getting to know them as they practiced their English-language skills and had a bit of fun together. I also enjoyed every VTH event I attended. I learned something new every time! The best part of volunteering through The World in Your Classroom has been the wonderful people I have met, both students and teachers with whom I spoke at their schools, and fellow volunteers, who are all interesting individuals, also committed to serving others. I had such a positive experience that even my son decided to volunteer for TWIYC! The training he received helped him with his public speaking skills which was very useful at his work.

What volunteer role did you have and what tasks did you perform?

I have served in a variety of volunteer roles throughout my life, and I have learned a bit about what makes them so special. It all began with her desire to serve young people. In addition to being a scout leader for each of my children, I served as a 'Youth Friend' to many children. Today I continue to serve others in several roles, especially remaining in service of expat women, young and old. In more recent times, my focus has become organizing regular coffee and lunch opportunities for women to get together to socialize and to be of continued support to one another, as many are now growing older and experiencing illness and the resulting life changes. 

Volunteering can grow with us, as our interests and our reality are shaped by changes in our own circumstances and of those around us. 

Photo by Henriëtte Guest taken during a Volunteer The Hague training

What is typical of your own culture (values, mindset) that you bring to your volunteer role? 

My friendliness and open nature help me in my volunteer work, to make new connections and to be open to learning from and with others. Though my American-ness may also surprise others, I hope I am a good ambassador to build bridges with the Dutch. 

Have you ever learnt something from volunteering that became useful for your studies or paid work? 

Undoubtedly, my volunteer work has improved my 'paid' work greatly. I believe my communication skills and social sensitivity and intercultural awareness have been greatly improved, to the benefit of both volunteer and paid work performance. 

What piece of advice would you give to potential volunteers about how to find a suitable volunteer role?

I personally enjoy volunteering in positions with some freedom over scheduling, though of course it's the norm for people to travel in the Netherlands, so not the biggest deal to need to miss occasionally. My best advice for new volunteers is to have a look at the opportunities available, and see what sparks your interest, your passion. 

Talk about a WIN-WIN! This is a WIN-WIN-WIN; It's a win for every volunteer, and for every recipient, and for our community as a whole. It's great to be part of the solutions to so many issues. It's great to be a part of Volunteer The Hague at PEP Den Haag! It's also a fun thing to do together with a friend, and there is truly an opportunity to fit everyone.