ACCESS Summer 2018

Page 39

ACCESS News

ACCESS, part of a bigger picture For 32 years, ACCESS has been at the forefront of easing the transition of expatriates to the Netherlands. Providing volunteering opportunities as a way of allowing people to find a community of peers; being available to answer the myriad of questions people have as they arrive and settle in the Netherlands; offering an on-call Counselling Network for when the ”going gets tough” and simply sharing experiences.

PHOTO: FIGT-CONFERENCE-2018

While this has always been done on behalf of and for internationals relocating to the Netherlands, we know that within this broad community, there are many for whom this may be one of many relocations.

We are encouraged by the feedback we receive that suggests what people, in particular our volunteers, have learnt with us can help them as they move on to new locations. Global ‘sister’

We know we are part of something “global.” That who we are, and who we serve, are largely people on the move. For this reason, ACCESS has in the last few years been drawn to the mission of a sister organisation: Families in Global Transition (FIGT). Like us, FIGT is also a volunteer-run organisation. Like us, they strive to support individuals, families, crossing borders and cultures. What we offer locally, they offer globally through their membership. Many have been introduced to FIGT during their annual conference, which for the last three years has taken place in the Netherlands (2016 in Amsterdam, 2017 and 2018 in The Hague). Now many of the resources they offer can be easily found on their website www.figt.org. For anyone preparing for a move to a new location, in search of support or information related to a new country, or the challenges of crossing cultures and borders, their member directory will offer some s­olutions. As will their bookstore, where books on a myriad of subjects related to global living can be found. Looking to build a broader community of peers? Becoming a member is also an option. Congratulations

In this their 20th year, ACCESS salutes FIGT for all it has accomplished and the mission it continues to carry forth. We are happy to be a local partner of this global journey. «

ACCESS | SUMMER 2018 | 39


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