Become a buddy at Stichting 488: your attention makes the difference!

A cup of coffee, a walk, a good conversation, or going to an appointment together. Sometimes the greatest meaning lies in the smallest things.

At Stichting 488, we believe that every person matters. In our men's house in The Hague, eight men live who are building a more stable and independent life after a period of homelessness. Every resident has his own story.

A room of your own and a safe place to live are important first steps. But it is at least as important to have people around you who look out for you. That is why we are looking for committed volunteers who want to walk alongside our residents as a buddy.

What are you going to do?

As a buddy, you offer personal attention, companionship, and practical support where needed. Exactly what you do depends on your interests and the needs of the resident.

Consider, for example:

• Having coffee together, going for a walk, or having a good conversation.
• Helping to find enjoyable ways to spend the day.
• Doing something together or going out.
• Accompanying a resident to a (medical) appointment.
• Being a listening ear and a familiar face.

Some residents have physical or medical challenges, making extra support with daily activities or appointments very welcome.

You don't have to be able to do everything. Together, we will look at what suits you and where you can make a difference.

Who are we looking for?

You don't have to be a care provider to make a difference for someone else. We are primarily looking for people who:

• Being genuinely interested in others and enjoying a chat.
• The ability to listen well and treat people with different backgrounds with respect.
• Be reliable and keep their promises.
• Enjoying getting to know someone personally.

Do you have your own transport, do you speak another language besides Dutch or English, or do you have experience with care and support? That is a plus, but not a requirement!

How much time does it take?

We are preferably looking for volunteers who are available for a moment each week. This creates space to really get to know each other and build a bond of trust.

Do you have less time, but would like to help occasionally with, for example, transportation or accompanying someone to appointments? In that case, we would love to hear from you too!

What do we offer you?

• Meaningful volunteer work where you can make a direct difference for someone else.
• Personal guidance from our team.
• An introduction and a trial period to discover if it suits you.
• Room to use your talents and interests.
• The chance to meet new people and stories and become part of an engaged community.

About Foundation 488

At Stichting 488, we offer homeless people a safe place to live and personal support. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to rebuild trust, independence, and perspective, with the ultimate goal of a home of their own and a hopeful future.

Based on our Christian identity, we are committed to helping people in need, regardless of their background or beliefs. We are therefore looking for people who share our values, but everyone is welcome to apply.

Something for you?

You don't have to change someone's life. Sometimes the difference simply starts with being there for someone.

Would you like to become a buddy? Or would you like to meet first to discover what you can do for us?

Then please contact us!