Since the founding of DARA Europe in 2012, José Huizenga has played a crucial role in the organization’s growth and success as secretary. Her involvement goes beyond administrative tasks; her commitment comes from a genuine desire to support the lives of families in Cambodian Andong. With a warm heart and an active approach, José regularly organizes sponsorship events, with proceeds going directly to the community in Andong.
José’s connection to DARA Europe
José became connected to DARA Europe through her daughter, Tirza Voss. In 2009, Tirza made a trip around the world that took her to Andong, Cambodia. There she was confronted with the challenges and limited opportunities for the inhabitants. This experience touched her so deeply that upon her return to the Netherlands, she shared her story with family and friends, including, of course, her mother José. José recalls, “From that moment I knew that I also wanted to get involved in the community in Andong, by organizing events that generate money.”
Visiting Cambodia
José’s first visit to Cambodia was in 2012, when the organization was founded. Her second visit to Andong followed in 2016. For six weeks, she volunteered at the children’s center of the Stellar Child Care Organization (SCCO), DARA Europe’s local partner. Here she taught a number of children in a play-based way.
Moreover, she helped the teachers at SCCO to teach in a creative way, through games and crafts. As a remedial teacher in (special) primary education, she was able to share her knowledge. “It gave me immense satisfaction to see the children learning and laughing,” José says. She also supported the Stellar Foundation’s former sewing center, where mothers had the opportunity to learn skills and generate their own income.
José’s role as secretary: commitment to growth and collaboration
As secretary, José works closely with the board to shape DARA Europe’s vision and actions. Every two weeks they discuss the financial situation of DARA Europe and the new developments of SCCO. In addition to her role as secretary, José also supports the marketing and communications working group and enjoys organizing various sponsorship events. For both the fifth and tenth anniversary of DARA Europe, among others, she organized the party nights, the proceeds of which benefited the community in Andong. “Organizing and arranging, that’s where my strength lies,” José says proudly.
The mission of DARA Europe
With passion, José heartily recommends DARA Europe. When she sees the photos and videos of children in SCCO’s educational programs, she feels deeply touched and inspired every time. Through DARA Europe’s help, the children are able to learn new skills and develop further. “I would like to see them grow and shine like stars,” she says. “That’s our mission!” she explains. SCCO, with support from DARA Europe, provides basic services that help children grow up healthy. In addition, SCCO is committed to the personal development of children. So that they have the opportunity to build a self-chosen future.
Wil jij ook bijdragen aan een betere toekomst voor de kinderen in Andong? Sluit je aan als vrijwilliger bij DARA Europe, ontdek de mogelijkheden om mee te helpen of steun ons werk met een donatie. Samen maken we een verschil!
