Language Buddy from Amsterdams Buurvrouwen Contact
Would you like to volunteer? We’d love to have you. However, we’re currently receiving a very high volume of requests. As a result, we’re temporarily unable to accept new participants.
Amsterdams Buurvrouwen Contact (ABC) has been connecting isolated women who speak other languages with volunteer language buddies for over twenty years. It’s a win-win situation. The isolated, non-Dutch-speaking women receive Dutch lessons and gain a better understanding of society, which increases their self-reliance. Conversely, volunteer language buddies gain insight into a different culture and experience personal growth. They find fulfillment by teaching at home as a “neighbor.”
Who is this for?
The ABC’s target audience consists of isolated women who speak a language other than Dutch. These are women with beginner-level Dutch language skills (A0–A1), which generally prevents them from actively participating in society.
Improving their language skills enables them to develop personally and professionally. These women are often confined to their homes due to practical obstacles, such as the lack of a residence permit, childcare, health issues, informal caregiving, financial difficulties, and/or other concerns. In addition, illiteracy is common. A language buddy who visits at home offers a solution in the form of weekly one-on-one support.
Please note that there are requirements for registering for classes. You can find these conditions here.
By whom?
As a teacher, you’ll help your isolated neighbor who speaks another language learn Dutch through weekly one-on-one lessons. You’ll design the lessons yourself; ABC provides support in the form of teaching materials and tips.
Read here the story of Lhamo and Pamela.
Sign up now for an introductory meeting, or first read the answers to the frequently asked questions.
Photo: Liesbeth Dingemans