Change the world, one step at a time

Every year the charity committee finds three charities to present at the first general assembly, where one will be chosen. After hearing the choices, the majority of the votes was for ‘vier het leven’. This charity organizes cultural activities for the elderly. We also liked them the most out of the three choices, since we would have the chance to organize one of those cultural activities.

This year we organized three events: A poker tournament, an auction and eventually our trip to Artis with the charity. 

Starting with the poker tournament, we had an evening full of strategy, bluffing and of course a little math. With three tables in the studentenD0k, our players went head-to-head to win twenty per cent of the total earnings of the day. Throughout the evening, we kept increasing the big- and small blinds until only one table could be filled with our finalists. Eventually we found our winner and he won a very nice 70 euros. It was very nice to see that gambling can be used for good.

With a successful first event behind us, we focused on our annual charity auction. This event relied on the donation from our committees, partners, and brother- and sister associations. After sending some emails, we obtained a range of items from a boxing bag to heating pillows and from the title ‘member of the year’ to a puzzle. This evening was filled with fun and enough high bids, so this was our best event in terms of raising money.

After two successful activities, we were to organize the cultural get away for a day. After only one meeting we figured that going to Artis would be an incredibly fun idea. When the day arrived, around nineteen elderly individuals joined us for the trip to the zoo. We first met for a cup of coffee to welcome everyone, and to hear the first stories the students from back then had to tell. Then, the Artis tour guide showed us the animals the zoo has to offer. We heard some fun stories about the elephants and after watching the gorilla’s play, it was time to get back to the restaurant. We had one more cup of coffee and tea with a slice of apple pie. Then it was time to say goodbye and put all of the wheelchairs back in the trunks of the cars. When everyone came by, we saw a lot of smiles and heard a lot of good things about the day. It was very nice to hear that everyone had so much fun, which made it all worth it.

Now we are onto a new year, full of new opportunities to help a new charity. Hopefully, we will see most of you at our next events!