At the CoPPer project we work from the basis of social inclusion. If we take a closer look at social inclusion, we find the following definition.
“A society in which there are no obstacles for anyone and where everyone can participate in this society. Where everyone, regardless of their background, situation, age, skin color, cultural background, gender, talents and limitations, belongs to this society. That he is recognized and accepted and can make contact with his environment. That he can regain access to social ties and institutions and acquire an accepted social position.”
Our volunteers support this task.
We have divided these tasks into two groups. On the one hand, they offer support, guidance and a listening ear. The support also includes helping to build or restore the social network;
The other group is to provide practical support: the practical tasks include helping with administration, going to authorities, attending court hearings, and providing support in finding housing, work and education.
In the Netherlands, “standing next to the other” is also viewed from the presence approach. The presence approach strives to “be there for the other”.
Standing next to someone else is first achieved with sufficient connection and attunement to the other person's living environment and life course.
Presence offers help, support and care that advances the other person's story and life. They give the other person the recognition and support that they can occupy the social position. Presence encourages the other person to show themselves and discover the best of his or her possibilities. That he can find his own way and make mistakes. The volunteer stands next to him and 'picks him up' when he falls and together they continue on the road.
The power in this approach lies in standing next to the other and letting him be who he is regardless of his past.
This unconditional attention is often one of the motivations of a volunteer. An unprecedented power that we can offer our clients.
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