Tuesday afternoon, May 23, the annual Zonnehuis Penningen were awarded to people who selflessly make a difference for vulnerable elderly people, with beautiful initiatives in their own neighborhood in Ouder-Amstel, De Ronde Venen, Amstelveen and Amsterdam Zuid. 

During the festive gathering, it became clear once again how important but especially how nice it is to contribute to caring for each other. Thijs Houtappels, director Zonnehuisgroep Amstelland: "We as care professionals cannot do without them, without these meaningful initiatives, without this safety net of informal organizations for vulnerable elderly people." Flora Breemer, Stadsdeelbestuurder Amsterdam Zuid, praised the efforts of so many and immediately made an appointment to join the Zwerfafvalbrigade, one of the winning initiatives.

Wonderful initiatives

Four Zonnehuis Penningen were awarded. Edwin Barentsen received the medal for the municipality of Amstelveen. The jury report: "Carefully and thoughtfully, with the efforts of volunteers and professionals, a dance event literally and figuratively brings movement into the lives of elderly people with physical limitations."

In De Ronde Venen it was Simone Borgstede who received the medal. "Giving single elderly people the opportunity to meet each other: with a wide range of activities you help people to get in touch with each other. This creates a connection," said the jury.

For Amsterdam it was Mrs. Van den Bosch who received this recognition on behalf of the Zwerfafvalbrigade. Juror Shosha Melkman explained why: "Being active together outside and feeling that you are of significance: what a powerful initiative. Moreover, you are an inspiring example for neighbors of all ages."

And finally Ellen Forbes and Annelies van Eekeren (present via Facetime from Paris), Municipality of Ouder-Amstel, for their initiative Vervoertje. Marylin Haimé of the Council of the Elderly: "With your initiative you offer mobility to older fellow villagers. Practical and accessible, you contribute in this way to their independence and freedom." 

Sun House Medal

The Zonnehuis Medal is a token of appreciation for people who selflessly dedicate themselves to vulnerable elderly people living at home and a recognition of their special efforts. With this, the Zonnehuis Group also wants to inspire others. 

Since the 100th anniversary in 2021, the Zonnehuis Penning is awarded annually in the municipalities where Zonnehuisgroep Amstelland provides elderly care: Amstelveen, Ouder-Amstel, De Ronde Venen and Amsterdam Buitenveldert

Anyone can nominate someone: a family member, friend, acquaintance, colleague or neighbor. A jury evaluates the candidates and their initiatives and determines which of the nominees for that community deserves the Zonnehuis Penning.

The jury consists of:

  • Nelleke Vogel, chairman of the Participe Supervisory Board, among others, and chairman of the jury;
  • Henk Nies, associate professor of Organization and Policy of Care at the Free University;
  • Marylin Haimé, a member of the National Council of Elders and a member of the board of Amnesty International Netherlands;
  • Shosha Melkman, chairman Central Client Council Zonnehuisgroep Amstelland;
  • Thijs Houtappels, director Zonnehuisgroep Amstelland.