A new initiative bringing businesses and community organisations together has been launched in The Hague. PEPpodium, developed by PEP Den Haag, aims to make it easier for local companies to contribute their expertise, resources and networks to organisations working to improve life in the city.
The initiative was officially launched on Thursday 8 October at ROC Mondriaan in The Hague, where Alderman for Economic Affairs Richard de Mos marked the occasion alongside representatives of businesses, community organisations and other partners.
Connecting Businesses with Local Needs
Many businesses want to make a positive contribution to their local community but are not always sure where their support would be most valuable.
At the same time, voluntary organisations, neighbourhood initiatives, charities and associations often need additional expertise, practical assistance or resources to carry out their work.
PEPpodium aims to bring these two groups together, matching the needs of community organisations with what local businesses can offer.
Support might include sharing professional knowledge, providing staff time, making equipment or facilities available, or introducing organisations to useful contacts and networks.
The focus is on creating partnerships that respond to genuine needs in the city.
Building on PEP Den Haag’s Community Network
PEP Den Haag already supports approximately 3,000 community organisations, initiatives and associations throughout the city. Through this work, the organisation has developed extensive knowledge of the challenges facing local communities.
PEPpodium builds on that network by connecting organisations with companies interested in making a meaningful contribution.
Gert-Jan Aleman, Managing Director of PEP Den Haag, explained the approach:
“With PEPpodium, we bring together businesses and community organisations in The Hague. We start with what the city needs and connect those needs with the strengths of local businesses.”
The initiative also aims to highlight successful partnerships, sharing examples that may encourage other businesses and organisations to become involved.
Four Founding Partners
PEPpodium begins with the support of four founding partners:
- Derksen & Drolsbach
- Tuincentrum Ockenburgh
- Mondial Van der Velde Verhuizingen
- Fonds 1818
The initiative is also supported by a growing network of ambassadors who aim to encourage further cooperation between businesses and community organisations.
The launch took place alongside the Maatschappelijke Beursvloer Den Haag, an event that brings companies and community organisations together to explore practical ways of supporting one another.
Opportunities for Businesses and Community Organisations
PEPpodium is intended to create lasting connections rather than simply encourage one-off donations.
Businesses can contribute in ways that reflect their expertise, available resources and interests, while community organisations can identify the assistance they need to develop their activities.
For The Hague’s international residents, entrepreneurs and organisations, the initiative offers another opportunity to become involved in the local community and contribute to projects across the city.
Businesses and community organisations interested in participating can find more information through PEP Den Haag.
More information:
https://pepdenhaag.nl/peppodium
Source: PEP Den Haag
Translation to English/Editing: The Hague Online
Images: PEP/Holland Park Media
