Royal Distinction in Playground de Waal

Playground de Waal is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. On the festive day of the celebration, Saturday, October 11, Hans and Carla were appointed Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau.

For years, they have kept the playground running. The spot on Oudenhoornstraat is a well-known place in the neighborhood; an important meeting place where Hans and Carla also organize various activities.

Carla has been the chairperson for 20 years and opens the doors every day. Hans has been the treasurer for just as long. He also maintains the playground and keeps it tidy and safe for children to play.

Although it is not easy to gather enough volunteers, the couple always manages to treat visitors - young and old - to various events. Such as bingo nights, Opzoomer parties, the annual Easter brunch, neighborhood walks, and craft days on Mothers Day. The biggest hits are the Sinterklaas celebration with a homemade film and the spooky party during Halloween.

Warmth and Cosiness 

‘You together form the beating heart of Playground de Waal,’ said Deputy Mayor Pascal Lansink-Bastemeijer during the award ceremony. ‘Thanks to your efforts, the playground is not only a nice and safe place to play and romp. It is a real meeting place for the neighborhood. Where grandparents can chat while the grandchildren play. And where neighbors come together. They all find warmth and coziness there. That social contact keeps a neighborhood strong and ensures that neighbors continue to look out for each other.’

Rotterdam Neighborhood News

This message is in Rotterdam Neighborhood News, the digital newsletter of the Municipality of Rotterdam. Want to stay informed about what is happening in your neighborhood? You can sign up for the newsletter and view previous editions here. Link opens an external page.

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