Netherlands

Cleaning the Food Bank and a bootcamp with elderly

The first week of July was filled with Nelson Mandela Day activities at Aspen Oss in the Netherlands. Around 50 Aspen colleagues volunteered to work at the Food Bank and at͚De Wellen͛ home for eldery.

The team set about thorourly cleaning the Food Bank in Oss, where about 180 families collect weekly food packages. Storage areas were emptied, the floor was polished and the refrigerator was cleaned. In addition, food and cleaning supplies were repacked in smaller quantities, ready for the weekly food package distribution. Geert van Orsouw, IT System Administrator IT, was impressed by the work of the Food Bank and said, "It is distressing to hear what poverty does to people and especially to children. It͛s nice to contribute to the good work of the Food Bank."

A second, unique project took place at De Wellen home for the elderly where 20 Aspen employees exercised together with the residents. An active bootcamp was hosted with the elderly with coaching and joint training provided by the Aspen team. Push-ups were done, weights lifted and an alternative jeu de boules played. The afternoon ended with a delicious Italian ice cream. Lenie van Breda, Project Manager at De Wellen was very satisfied with the afternoon and said, "I saw people who are at times a bit sad, but today they all smiled. Thank you, Aspen!"

Through these two meaningful activities Aspen has contributed to the happiness of others and has simultaneously strengthened the bond among colleagues who participated in the initiatives.