From mentoring underprivileged youth to aiding children with life-threatening illnesses, the projects reflect the diverse range of causes that are close to our people’s hearts. This blog spotlights two projects that form part of BCD’s 2024 Making a Difference program and the benefits they add to communities.
BCD volunteer encourages scouting for all children
One collaboration is with Scoutinggroep Clifford Reichert. Based in Lopik, Netherlands, this scout group provides a vital support system for children from diverse backgrounds and family situations, offering them opportunities for personal growth and independence through scout camps and weekly activities.
Making membership possible for all
Scoutinggroep Clifford Reichert covers all membership costs for girls and boys who would otherwise be unable to participate in scouting. Even facing rising energy costs, Clifford Reichert decided against raising member fees. Instead, they’re investing in energy-saving measures, from water-saving taps to solar panels, to ensure long-term sustainability without burdening families.
BCD senior financial analyst Nina Van Oosterom and her family have been involved with scouting for years. “I believe scouting brings an important element to a community,” said Oosterom, who proposed the group to BCD for support. “Encouraging children’s personal and social development is really important to me. Supporting Clifford Reichert through BCD’s Making a Difference program is something I’m really proud of. A significant aspect of scouting is thinking about the environment and other people, working in a group, picking up new skills, becoming more adept at problem-solving and accepting responsibility.
“My family has been involved with scouting since my boys were young. They’re both still involved now at ages 18 and 22. My husband has spent years at the club as a Scout leader. I’m also a member of the club as a volunteer and tribe member. Clifford Reichert is in our blood! In my experience and locality, people seem so ‘busy’ that volunteering is becoming a serious concern. I encourage everyone to reach out to your local clubs and see if they have an annual fundraiser that you can help with, or if they need volunteers to help with projects and development. You never know, you might make new friends and contacts, it will also help your mental and physical health and is usually a total contrast to your day-to-day work.”
BCD agent helps tackle homelessness in Los Angeles
Mina Shafiee, a travel consultant for BCD Media & Entertainment, is helping address homelessness through her volunteer work with the R.E.A.L. Youth Foundation (RYF). Based in Los Angeles, California, RYF focuses on supporting children and families living in RVs, cars, tents, and unstable housing situations. Through their weekly efforts, they provide essential resources, including hot meals, hygiene bags, and school supplies, while also fostering community engagement and volunteerism among young individuals.
Her dedication stems from a deep-rooted connection to Los Angeles and her firsthand experience witnessing the struggles faced by underserved communities. She’s worked with RYF for over four years. And now in 2024, the project is being supported through Making a Difference. “I’ve found that volunteering is not just about giving back; it’s about finding purpose and fulfillment in the act of serving others. It’s about recognizing our shared humanity and the profound impact we can have when we come together with a common goal,” Shafiee said.
“The RYF team prepares and hand-delivers hot meals and a lunch bag with a handwritten, uplifting note. To date, RYF has distributed 17,205 hot meals and lunch bags, 3,025+ hygiene bags, 6,460 pounds of dog and cat food, 33,310+ bottles of water, 4,500+ backpacks, and school supplies to 5,200+ students,” Shafiee said.
The power of collective action
“As a proud native of Los Angeles, I’ve witnessed the ever-changing landscape of our city, where progress and hardship intertwine in complex ways. There can be stark disparities, particularly in the struggles faced by children in underserved areas. The spread of food deserts and the prevalence of fast-food establishments are reminders of the systemic challenges that continue in our communities, contributing to a myriad of health issues and perpetuating cycles of poverty.”
In August, Shafiee will join RYF volunteers for a backpack drive. “I’m optimistic that we can rally together for the drive. It’s an opportunity for us to come together, to uplift our youth, and to demonstrate the power of collective action in creating positive change.”
Her advice to others considering serving their community: “Take that first step. Find a volunteer date that speaks to you, and step forward with courage and compassion. You’ll not only enrich the lives of those around you, but also discover the power of community and connection.”
Making a Difference is supported by the John & Marine van Vlissingen Foundation, a non-profit established in 1985 by BCD Travel founder John van Vlissingen and wife Marine. BCD Travel is a family-owned company.
