Buddy for 6 months
Over those months you spend around 80 hours on the buddy programme. Most young people spend 8–12 hours a month on this volunteer work.
Buddies for children
Imagine: you can really mean something to a child. Simply by being there: playing together, talking or helping with homework. For many children that attention isn’t a given.
About this project
- Make a positive impact on a child’s life
- Develop patience, empathy and communication skills
- Receive a recognised civic service (MDT) certificate that looks great on your CV
As a buddy you’re matched with a child aged 6 to 13 who could use some extra support. You’re not a care professional, but a familiar, trusted face.
This is a great and flexible way to do something good and develop yourself. As a child’s buddy you also get priority for the Careibu citytrip to Paris.
Is this for you?
- You are between 18 and 30 years old
- You want to do something good for your fellow human beings
- You live in or near Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, Leiden or Delft
Experiences
What other young people say
My contact with Pam taught me how much impact you can have just by simply being there for someone. I watched her grow week by week.
Eva 18, pupil I started to try something new and ended up with a strong bond with Samir. It was amazing to watch him blossom.
Tom 24, gap year I helped a girl rebuild her self-confidence through creative activities. The best part was seeing her start to shine again.
Elena 26, social work student +7,000
people have already been helped by our community. As a child’s buddy, you can truly make the difference in someone’s life.
Becoming a volunteer: what does it involve?
Guidance from start to finish
You’re not on your own. Careibu guides you personally and our children’s partner organisations help with the pedagogical side.
A child who suits you
We arrange a match that suits you, so the contact feels natural and fun for both of you.
Civic service (MDT) certificate
After completing the programme you receive an MDT certificate — a nice bonus when you’re looking for a job.
How does it work?
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Sign up
Signing up is free, just like the whole programme. After that we’ll contact you to help you find a suitable match.
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Get to know our partners
We work together with Humanitas, Vitalis and BforYou. A partner plans a short video call to get to know you and find the right match.
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Get to know your buddy
You meet your match for the first time. With our tips and guidance you’ll start with confidence.
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Company and support
After the introduction you keep your buddy company for 6 months. On holiday? You can easily pause the programme.
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Training and coaching
Coaches work with you on your personal development. You can also join the Careibu academy for free.
People looking for help
People looking for help with this project
View a few people who fit this project. Open a profile and discover if you're a match.
Noah, 9
Amsterdam
Companion for children
Struggles with reading and is looking for someone to read along for an hour and make it fun.
- Reading together
- Hours per month
- Up to 4 hours
- Availability
- Daytime
Saar, 8
Rotterdam
Companion for children
Looking for a sports buddy to play football in the park, play tag or bounce on the trampoline.
- Sport & play
- Hours per month
- Up to 4 hours
- Availability
- Weekend
Lucas, 11
Delft
Companion for children
Loves drawing and making craft projects and is looking for company at the table.
- Crafts
- Hours per month
- 4-8 hours
- Availability
- Daytime
Frequently asked questions
Good to know
What does the volunteer work actually involve?
You do fun, low-key activities such as playing together, crafting, doing sports or helping with homework. You decide together what suits you.
How do I find someone who really suits me?
We start with a short introductory conversation. You also create an account where you can see requests from children in your area. After your choice you get a match confirmation as soon as possible.
What if I have no experience with children?
No experience is needed. We guide you and give tips on how to interact well with children. The most important thing is that you’re patient and enthusiastic.
How much time does volunteering take?
You usually meet up weekly, with flexibility in your schedule. For a civic service (MDT) project you complete 80 hours over 6 months.
What does MDT mean?
MDT stands for "Maatschappelijke Diensttijd", the Dutch national civic service programme. You learn new skills, gain experience and mean something to someone else — with guidance and a certificate at the end.
Will I get guidance and help where needed?
Absolutely. Our youth coordinators are there for you. We also offer courses and workshops.
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