The Netherlands

Aspen employees bring warmth, colour and community spirit to Oss

In August, the heart of Mandela Day beat strongly in Oss as passionate volunteers from Aspen Oss and Aspen Biochem stepped forward to support two local organisations close to their community: Pijlerzorg & Wonen and Helpende Handen.

These volunteers didn’t just arrive with supplies — they arrived with heart, energy and a deep commitment to making a meaningful difference.

Pijlerzorg & Wonen offers housing and support to individuals with mild intellectual disabilities. They provide a safe and welcoming environment where residents feel welcome and respected and where tailored, personal independence is encouraged. Through a combination of professional care and personal freedom, individuals are able to make their own choices to shape their lives, and feel part of the community.

Helpende Handen supports needy individuals and families in Oss, particularly those who are experiencing financial hardship. Their assistance includes providing clothing, toys and making children’s birthdays extra special. They also help with other needs, simply because extra support is necessary at times.

Generous donations for Helpende Handen’s beneficiaries

Our volunteers showed immense generosity and involvement in Aspen’s 15^th Mandela Day campaign by donating pre-loved clothing, toys and food items for Helpende Handen’s beneficiaries.

Their collaborative, non-judgement spirit was aligned to Aspen’s values, and they showed collective support by also dedicating their time to these organisations and initiatives in need of extra hands.

Creating a joyful environment at De Pijler residence

A group of volunteers also spent a wonderful day at De Pijler residence where they focused on brightening up the communal spaces and spending meaningful time with the residents. Some of the activities included painting a mural, a wooden picnic table, garage doors and a communal room. They also attended to various gardening needs, planted herbs, made floral arrangements and baked biscuits with the residents. The team encouraged residents to share the experience not only to improve the environment but also to instill self-worth and enhance a spirit of community.

As a token of appreciation, we received a beautiful painting from the residents at De Pijler, which will be displayed in a special place at our Oss manufacturing site.