Nearly Two-Thirds of the Netherlands Fail to Show Appreciation for Volunteers

Recent research indicates a significant disconnect in appreciation for volunteers in the Netherlands. Only 58% of volunteers report feeling valued, despite nearly 80% of the Dutch population expressing a desire to thank them more often. The discrepancy in these perceptions is striking and highlights a critical issue within the community.

Rondje Waardering Initiative Launches

To address this issue, the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) and Heineken have introduced the Rondje Waardering campaign. This initiative is designed to honor volunteers throughout the soccer season, acknowledging their vital contributions to amateur football in the Netherlands.

The Role of Volunteers in Amateur Football

• Over 400,000 volunteers support clubs weekly.
• They encompass various roles, including referees, bar staff, groundskeepers, and youth coaches.
• Volunteers are essential for organizing matches, training sessions, and maintaining club culture.

As the backbone of the amateur football scene, volunteers provide invaluable support that keeps sports clubs operational. Their efforts ensure that facilities run smoothly and that community engagement remains strong.

Program Features of Rondje Waardering

The Rondje Waardering campaign takes root wherever the community gathers, whether in clubhouses, along the sidelines, or on the fields. Key features of the initiative include:

• Special beer coasters in clubhouses for members to write their “thank you” messages.
• Nominations for exceptional volunteers for additional recognition, with chances to win exclusive football experiences during the KNVB Cup final.
• Collection and sharing of personal stories highlighting the impact of volunteers.
• Training sessions for bar staff to ensure responsible service and enhance community spirit.

Jan Dirk van der Zee, director of amateur football at KNVB, emphasized the importance of recognizing volunteers. He noted that a simple acknowledgment can significantly boost their motivation and enjoyment.

The Appreciation Gap

Motivaction’s research reveals that many volunteers feel consistently undervalued. About 62% of Dutch citizens tend to hold back compliments, often due to uncertainty about how to express their gratitude. This culture of hesitation can lead to volunteers feeling unappreciated, even when appreciation is felt.

The Importance of Community and Social Spaces

The social fabric of the Netherlands thrives on its clubs and community spaces. With most people living within cycling distance of a football club, these venues serve as essential gathering places. Pieter Vissers, Horeca Director at Heineken Netherlands, highlighted the necessity of volunteers in maintaining these spaces.

He noted that the decline in volunteer availability for tasks such as bar services threatens the social essence of these clubs. Recognizing volunteers is crucial to sustaining the community culture surrounding Dutch football.

Call to Action

Individuals are encouraged to nominate volunteers for the Rondje Waardering initiative. By doing so, community members contribute to a growing culture of recognition and support.

With this collective effort from KNVB and Heineken, the hope is to foster a deeper appreciation for the invaluable volunteers who form the lifeblood of amateur football in the Netherlands.