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Many people walk into The Owl’s Nest because they want to make something, learn something, or rebuild a bit of rhythm. But the workshop also exists because there are people who choose to share their time and attention. Volunteering with us is not “just helping out”. It is doing something meaningful in the neighbourhood, in a way that fits who you are and what you can carry.
Technical knowledge is a bonus, not a requirement. The work is often smaller than people expect: welcoming someone, pouring a coffee, taking a question seriously, or choosing a first step together. What you do need is a calm attitude, a willingness to work together, and the sense that small can be big. Sometimes “thinking along for a moment” is enough. Sometimes it is simply being there, so someone does not drop out again right away.
We work small-scale, so roles sometimes overlap. Still, there are a few clear ways people contribute. For example:
Coffee and tea, welcoming people, a quick explanation of how things work here, and keeping things clear and manageable. Not pulling attention. Being present.
Thinking along with small projects and repairs. Sometimes by doing something together, sometimes by explaining what you see and what order makes sense. Safety and calm always come first.
Helping people work safely with tools and machines. Not as “the boss”, but as someone who prevents mistakes and teaches step by step how to do things neatly and safely.
Assisting with workshops (drawing, stained glass, glass painting, wood, metal, soldering, electricity), or carrying a workshop yourself if it fits you. Small groups, calm structure.
We currently have a number of larger jobs to make the space better, tidier and safer. Think of carpentry and assembly work, finishing a wall neatly, small brickwork or plastering, and other practical improvements. This fits especially well if you have two right hands and like seeing things become solid again.
The things you only notice when they don’t happen: tidying, organising, keeping materials in order, small repairs and maintenance, and making small adjustments so the workshop works better for everyone. No major renovations, but the daily basics that keep the place pleasant and clear.
Taking photos, writing a short text, helping with planning, or arranging practical things around activities. That also includes: distributing flyers, connecting with people in the neighbourhood, and occasionally helping with a small fundraising action or organising a get-together. Not everyone contributes with a screwdriver. That’s fine.
Volunteering at The Owl’s Nest fits well if you like practical doing and normal human contact, without big stories.
You don’t need perfect availability. A few hours that truly work is better than a schedule that adds stress.
We don’t throw you in at the deep end. You start by joining in, you get to know the spaces, and we agree together what fits you. Because we work small-scale, we prefer good alignment over “just filling a rota”.
You get room to learn and to ask questions. And you will notice it quickly: your contribution matters. Not because you work harder, but because you are there.
We are open in principle from 09:00 to 17:00. Drop-in is at Paul Krugerstraat when the welcome sign is on. The location at Spaarndamseweg is always by appointment (because the doors of the central hall must remain closed). Our office is at Tugelastraat. From there we handle supporting tasks, and around lunchtime we prepare a warm meal every day.
Not sure whether volunteering fits you? That’s normal. Most people start with: “I’m happy to help, but I don’t know exactly how.” That is a perfectly fine beginning. Come meet us, and we’ll make it concrete.
Sign up as a volunteer or first plan an introductory appointment.
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