In conversation with volunteers Annelies and Tadek: “It really feels like our park”

Annelies and Tadek have been active volunteers at De Groene Poort Oost since 2023. What started as an NLdoet activity has grown into a permanent fixture in their lives. “We came to help and were immediately hooked,” says Annelies. “So many local people working together to create something beautiful. It felt good right away.”

Neighbours become friends

The couple has lived in the neighbourhood since 2012, but it wasn’t until volunteering that they truly got to know their surroundings.

Tadek: “You used to walk through the neighbourhood and never say hello to anyone. Now you see familiar faces everywhere. They’ve become friends. The other day, I was in the supermarket and just happened to chat with someone from the park for five minutes. That never happens otherwise.”

That social connection is a huge asset for both of them. “You see each other, you recognise each other, and that makes the neighbourhood so much more welcoming,” says Annelies.

Favourite things: Being ‘zen’ on the bench, or tinkering with the DIY group

When asked about their favourite thing in the park, they don’t have to think long.

For Annelies, it’s the bench at the top of the park: “The sun always shines just a little bit longer there. Just sit there, watch, and relax. Wonderful!”

Tadek especially enjoys the park’s DIY work. “Every time I walk through the park, I see things we made ourselves. Those benches, for example. I literally screwed the planks onto them. Looking back on that is truly satisfying.”

A special memory is the slide he installed with a fellow volunteer: “When I see children sliding, I think: we made that. That gives me a real sense of pride.”

Working in the park means pure relaxation for both of them.

Annelies: “It’s truly zen. Fresh air, nature, exercise. Better than the gym.”
Tadek agrees: “We both still work. So it’s wonderful to have this so close by. We almost always start and end our walks in the park.”

Looking towards the future: opportunities and challenges

They see both great opportunities and challenges for the coming years.

Annelies: “There was a large group of volunteers in the beginning, but there haven’t been many new additions to the group. You need hands to maintain this beautiful park.”

Tadek, on the other hand, is looking forward with enthusiasm: “I’m really excited about the food forest. The idea that you’ll soon be able to pick berries or bring an apple home. That seems fantastic.”

They also dream of more activities. “The stage has been used a few times now, but how great would it be if a theater group came here sometime? Or a children’s show?”

Annelies adds: “Or a food truck in the summer, once a month. Just a small event that draws people in.”

One thing stands out: the park could be much more inviting to visitors.

Tadek: “It looks rather closed off from the outside, with those two gates. People sometimes don’t even know they’re allowed in. A more open atmosphere, or clearer communication that everyone is welcome, would help.”

An invitation to the neighbourhood

What would they like to share with others?

“Come and see for yourself and join in sometime,” says Tadek. “You’ll meet people, you’ll feel more connected to the neighbourhood, and nothing is mandatory. You do what you can. Everything you do has a positive impact.”

Annelies nods: “It’s a beautiful, peaceful place where you can make a difference together. I want everyone to have that.”