Chair Rob Westerlaken looks back on a successful year

Over the past year, Vebego Foundation once again actively supported children, young people and colleagues who needed a helping hand. In the Netherlands and beyond. Chair Rob Westerlaken looks back with pride on a year in which commitment and collaboration were central.

Our people make the difference
“I am incredibly grateful to all the volunteers, colleagues, board members and ambassadors who once again committed themselves to Vebego Foundation this year. Thanks to their involvement, we have been able to take meaningful steps in the continued development of the foundation. Without our people, there is no impact,” Rob explains. That shared commitment was reflected in everything Vebego Foundation did. From supporting colleagues to enabling volunteer initiatives and strengthening partnerships.

“Throughout the year, one question kept coming back: what is needed, and how can we help?” 

International growth of Vebego Foundation
Important steps were also taken internationally. The foundations in Germany and Switzerland continued to develop, with a growing impact that we hope will eventually be on the same scale as in the Netherlands and Belgium. A special moment this year was the first project in Germany, in collaboration with Make A Wish Foundation. Rob says: “The fact that fifty colleagues volunteered for this project shows just how strong the engagement is. Those are the moments that show what is possible when people come together and take action.”

Addressing financial concerns and the importance of conversation
Another key theme in 2025 was recognising and discussing financial concerns. Many employees find it difficult to talk about money worries, often due to shame or uncertainty, while early recognition can prevent problems from escalating. That is why Vebego Foundation organised a course, delivered by colleague Josine. In 2025, no fewer than 110 colleagues took part.

“The course received a rating of 4.7 out of 5. That clearly shows how great the need is, and how much impact initiatives like this can have.” 

Building a strong foundation together
Within the board, work also continued on building a strong and future-proof foundation. In 2025, we said goodbye to Rita Brouwer, who supported the board during a transitional phase. At the same time, Rahel Wagner joined, taking over the role in Switzerland from Shirley Jane Michael, while Helen became actively involved in communication and visibility for the foundation. The collaboration within the board is strong and forms an important foundation for the work of Vebego Foundation, now and in the future.

A year to be proud of
For Rob Westerlaken, 2025 is a year to look back on with confidence. Not because of one specific project or moment, but because of the collective commitment of so many colleagues, volunteers and partners. It is what we carry together and make possible together. That is where we truly make the difference.

Looking ahead to 2026
The foundation has been laid. Now it is time to build on it. In the coming period, the focus will be on strengthening the ambassador network, further increasing the visibility of Vebego Foundation in Germany and Switzerland, and more actively engaging volunteers within the organisation.In addition, a construction trip to Sri Lanka is planned for 2026.

“I hope that together we can continue to take meaningful steps, and that many colleagues will once again choose to actively support one another in the year ahead.”