Dear members,

It's time to briefly update you on the renovation. You haven't seen much of it yet, but in the meantime we are working hard behind the scenes.

There is a renovation working group led by the architect Govert ten Katen. This includes board members Mark Spijker and Anna Heerdink and myself. Timo van der Kraan is also an active part of this working group. Based on the plans that Govert previously presented to the association, an architect was hired who made an initial cost estimate. Together the estimated costs are now 6,5 tons. That is a significant amount. More than a third of this – so 2 tons – is needed to make the ventilation system work again. Without a properly functioning ventilation system, it is not possible to organize larger meetings.

You probably understand that the biggest challenge at the moment is to raise enough money. As a board, we do not want to spend all the association's money on this renovation, because future boards will no longer have any choice. We therefore asked for help from Fonds 1818, which put us in touch with Sesame advisors. They specialize in supporting volunteer organizations in finding additional funds.

The board would also like to ask for your help as members. The first question is whether you would like to help with your contacts, for example by introducing us to companies or institutions that could contribute. This contribution can take different forms. For example, consider space that we can use during the renovation, but also furniture.

The second question is whether you as members would also like to roll up your sleeves when the renovation starts. Many hands make light work. For example, if we carry out demolition or painting work ourselves, this can make a significant difference in labor costs.

The third question is whether you, as members, would like to make a donation for the renovation or organize actions to raise money.

Let's make this building a place that is for and by our community!