Collaboration Brain Foundation

In addition to running a healthy business, we at Ditio believe it is important to contribute to a better world. For some time we had been looking for a suitable way to do this. Via the Edwin van der Sar Foundation we ended up at the Brain Foundation. Their joint project 'The Class' particularly appealed to us. Meanwhile, the collaboration is taking on more and more concrete forms, so it is high time for Operational Director Henk Brouwer to catch up with us.

How did the collaboration with the Brain Foundation come about?

Henk: "Actually, this originated initially from our Loyalty Program the Ditio Ditcoin. We were looking for a destination for the amount our Ditiosi had saved together. Coincidentally, my son just had a charity project for his studies and his group chose the Edwin van der Sar Foundation. Ditio also supported that project at the time. Based on the pleasant contact with the foundation, it was subsequently decided to choose the Edwin van der Sar Foundation as charity for the proceeds of the Ditcoins.'

What is the relationship between the Edwin van der Sar Foundation and the Brain Foundation?

Henk: "Both foundations have been successfully working together for some time on projects to help people with brain injuries. Since 2021, they have officially joined forces. One of the joint projects is 'The Class'. During the Van der Sar breakfast in the Amsterdam Arena to which Rick (Arts, CEO) and I were invited, we were inspired by the story of Hester, former Class participant. After a fall from her bicycle, she appeared to have a brain contusion and subsequently suffered a brain hemorrhage. She had difficulty with speech, could no longer live independently and had to stop her studies. 'The Class' helped her with a customized program to gradually participate in society again. For example, a study coach, job coach and sports coach are available to guide the participants. In addition, the contact with other young people with non-congenital brain injury provides enormous support. Hester was able to complete her studies through this project, works full-time again and even plays a game of tennis in her spare time.'

Ditio and The Class

'Hester's inspiring story made us eager to commit to this project. Together with project leader Michael Vallen, we looked for ways to be of value to each other. For example, another former participant of 'The Class', told her story during a Ditio Bright Night, after which we organized two mornings at Ditio for the Class participants of that moment. During the first morning, we mainly educated the participants about our company and the positions we offer. The second morning we helped the participants with their CV, LinkedIn profile and gave explanations and tips on how to be well prepared during job applications. On the spot, we even took a professional photo for their resume and LinkedIn profile," Henk says enthusiastically.

What does collaboration look like for the future?

'It is our intention to continue to organize at least 2 morning sessions for a new Class every year. In addition, we would like our employees or Ditiosi to help/participate in the fields days organized for 'The Class'. The ultimate goal is of course to be able to offer some participants supportive internships or a learning/working place or even a permanent job. A brain injury can happen to all of us, so we feel it is partly our responsibility to help these young people regain a place in society with the prospect of a bright future.'