Successful initiative gets sequel: continuing with BrainBrigade
We are taking the next step in matching volunteers with memory problems. The successful initiative continues under the new name BrainBrigade, on its own platform and with a strong local network. The official opening took place on Thursday 16 April at Motor Metal.
Strong own network
'We started last year with the national platform DemenTalent, but within five months, 10 local companies in Lelystad joined the initiative,' says managing director Marieke Voogt. 'That growth was mainly due to our network, which was an important reason for us to continue the initiative ourselves.'
Companies offer volunteering
Toms Creek was the first company to offer volunteer opportunities to people with memory problems. Steef Wolffgramm of Motor Metaal Lelystad was one of the organisations that joined afterwards. 'I saw the sparkle in Dick's eyes when he saw the type of motorbike he had last had. Then I knew: I'll do it. Even though I didn't know anyone around me with dementia.'
Volunteer Dick at Motor Metal
Due to dementia, Dick can no longer pursue his great passion: motorcycling. Tinkering was still possible and he could do that plenty at Steef's place, which is precisely why it was valuable for him to volunteer a few hours a week. He liked it here so much," says his wife Jody. 'When I came to pick him up, he would say, "Do I have to leave already?" That was a good sign.'
For the relaunch of BrainBrigade, he gladly made his small-scale motorbike shop available. Alderman Jan-Nico Appelman and director-director Marieke Voogt of Welzijn Lelystad cut the cake together with Steef Wolffgramm.
Active participation with memory problems
BrainBrigade is part of the partnership Sterk met je Netwerk, in which Welzijn Lelystad works together with Coloriet, Woonzorg Flevoland, Icare and Centrada. From this network also arose the desire to let people with memory problems continue to participate actively in society. Through voluntary work, and by cooperating with local companies, BrainBrigade now concretely connects to this.
For more information, visit: www.vrijwilligerslelystad.nl/breinbrigade
Photo caption: Marieke Voogt(Welzijn Lelystad), Steef Wolffgramm (Motor Metaal Lelystad) and alderman Jan-Nico Appelman open BrainBrigade Lelystad. Photo studio Wierd
