Trust, solidarity, and rebellious spirit with humour and a smile: these are the ingredients of the Quiet communities that help soften poverty in the Netherlands.
Quiet – a reference to too many people suffering poverty in silence has grown from a glossy magazine – Quiet 500 – that challenges the negative narratives about poverty to a growing network of thriving community groups across the country that offer warm, welcoming and supportive spaces for people experiencing poverty and hardship.
In this episode, we speak with Quiet’s founder – Ralf Embrechts – and chair of the board of Quiet in the Netherlands – Marieke van Bommel-Bekker. Both Ralf and Marieke perform these roles volunteers, from a place of passion and commitment.
Ralf also combines his role in Quiet with his work as managing director of a social development association (called MOM Tilburg) in the Dutch city of Tilburg. Founded by social housing corporations, it brings together 14 organisations working to improve the lived realities of residents in disadvantaged neighbourhoods.
Ralf and Marieke speak about the pillars of Quiet’s approach. Underpinned by trust in everyone’s value and ability to contribute, they explain the power of local communities coming together to offer support, provide opportunities, or simply have a cup of tea. The unconditional, no-strings-attached, and supportive environment stands in such stark and welcome contrast to welfare support services that operate from a basis of suspicion and distrust that Quiet manages to reach people who otherwise fall between the cracks.
We also hear about the practicalities of how to set up a Quiet community. From securing amply financial means to practising what you preach, they are vital components to work with members and support them in what they indicate to need.
Photo credit: Bob Dmyt via Pixabay
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