Vervolg op de Verschilmakers – Cariben (EN)

The program supports initiatives that strengthen the social engagement of young people and encourage volunteering among youth. Projects may focus on young people in vulnerable situations, but this is not a requirement. 

Organizations that can apply are, for example, initiatives that: 

• attract and retain more young volunteers, for instance by adapting volunteer policies to better align with young people's needs; 
• communicate in ways that resonate with young audiences and organize activities or training for youth; 
• fund the position of a volunteer coordinator who has strong connections with young people and can guide and support them; 
• create or strengthen networks where young volunteers can connect with one another; 
• support and mentor young people who want to start their own initiative or establish a foundation, including guidance in applying for funding through the impulse fund Verschilmakers: Jong!

Organizations interested in applying can submit our application form on the website of Samenwerkende Fondsen Cariben and send it to the local advisor of the island in question. The Oranje Fonds will assess whether the proposal fits within this program. The general guidelines and conditions of the Oranje Fonds apply.

This program is implemented in collaboration with the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science. During the program period, the Ministry makes 1 million euros per year available to support social organizations that work with or are led by young people. 

The program is strongly connected to the Maatschappelijke Diensttijd (MDT), which is also supported by the Ministry of OCW and is being implemented in Bonaire, Saba and St. Eustatius. 

Volunteering allows young people to contribute to society while developing their talents and meeting people outside their usual social circles.