Under the motto Rolling Up Sleeves! the Provincial Volunteer Day 2025 was ceremoniously opened on Saturday in the fortified town of Hellevoetsluis by deputies Anne Koning and Meindert Stolk. The annual gathering highlighted the thousands of volunteers in the heritage and greenery of South Holland. It was a day full of encounters, inspiration, and activities. The Provincial Volunteer Day is a collaboration of the Zuid-Hollands Landschap and the Heritage House South Holland, with support from the province.
This year, the meeting took place in the historic Dry Dock Jan Blanken, part of Fortress Holland. This impressive location in Hellevoetsluis brought the theme to life in a unique way. With a program full of stories about maritime history, excursions through the dry dock, and nature activities where participants could literally roll up their sleeves.
“Without the dedication and passion of our volunteers, many heritage sites and nature areas would be in much worse condition,” said deputy Meindert Stolk (Culture and Heritage). “I am incredibly grateful and proud of the people who voluntarily dedicate themselves to preserving and experiencing our rich South Holland heritage. They ensure that our history remains visible and tangible – for now and for future generations.”
Deputy Anne Koning (Space and Housing) emphasizes the importance of voluntary commitment in greenery: “Volunteers are indispensable in preserving and protecting our greenery and heritage. As a province, we therefore support, among other things, the Green Motor program, thereby strengthening the bond between people and nature and working together for a greener, healthier South Holland.”
Sharing Knowledge and Bundling Strengths
During the day, the meeting between volunteers from heritage and nature was also central. In workshops and discussions, it was explored how both worlds can strengthen each other.
“Volunteers working with heritage or nature have a lot in common,” says Koning. “By sharing experiences and learning from each other, we can achieve more. For example, when it comes to finding and binding other people, communication, and the appreciation they deserve.”
Stolk also emphasizes the power of collaboration: “Mutual inspiration and joint projects increase the impact of volunteer work. By connecting networks and exchanging knowledge, not only does involvement grow, but so does the awareness of our shared goals.”