Erick helps his athletics club move forward

As Chain Collaboration Manager at Vebego’s NS Business Unit, Erick Bakker spends his days improving processes and fostering teamwork. But outside of work, you’ll often find him at the AV Castricum athletics track, where he enthusiastically coaches a group of young athletes, including his daughter.

‘What makes it special’, Erick Shares, ‘is that I used to run on this very track as a child. Every time I’m here, it feels like things have come full circle.’

A small contribution with a big impact
When Erick learned about My Effort, My Project, he didn’t hesitate for long. ‘I read that you can apply for a €500 contribution from the Vebego Foundation if you volunteer for a club or organisation. I immediately thought: our athletics club could really use that’.

It turned out the club was still transporting its starting blocks in and old handcart. ‘Not exactly ideal’, Erick laughs. ‘So, I mentioned to the club that I might be able to help through Vebego. After just a few emails, everything was arranged. The application process was super easy, and the contribution was transferred quickly’. /p>

Thanks to the foundation’s support, AV Castricum now has a brand-new cart that makes it easier and safer to move the starting blocks around the track. ‘Everyone’s happy with it. It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference for the trainers.’

Pride and connection
For Erick, the project means more than just practical help. ‘It feels great to give something back to the club where I have so many fond memories. And I’m proud that Vebego supports these kinds of initiatives. It shows that we care about people not only at work, but beyond it as well.’

His message to colleagues is simple: ‘If you know about My Effort, My Project, go for it. It’s so easy to apply. The club is happy, you’re happy, and Vebego is happy. Win-win-win, right?’.

About “My Effort, My Project”
With “My Effort, My Project”, any Vebego colleague can apply for support for volunteer work they do in their free time, whether for a sports club, local initiative, cultural organisation or foundation. Vebego Foundation supports these efforts with a contribution of up to €500.

It feels great to give something back to the club where I grew up. Now the club is happy, you're happy and Vebego is happy. Win-win-win, right?'