Mobitwin testimonial for SMALL: Marcel from Zwijndrecht
This testimonial was collected as part of the SMALL project. SMALL (Shared Mobility for ALL) is an Interreg project in which we collaborate with 12 partners to make shared mobility as inclusive as possible. As part of this project, we at Mpact are looking at how we can help our Mobitwin Desks recruit volunteers.
Marcel started as a volunteer with Mobitwin Zwijndrecht four years ago, back when it was still called the Minder Mobielen Centrale. He joined somewhat by chance, but now he wouldn’t want to do anything else.
Hi Marcel, tell us how you got started with Mobitwin.
It happened rather by chance! During the COVID pandemic, I was actively involved in the Oosterweel connection project, informing the residents of Zwijndrecht about it. Because of this, I received an invitation to the official opening of the bridge. There, I got into a conversation with the alderman and traffic coordinator of Zwijndrecht, who told me that the Mobitwin Centrale was looking for volunteers with their own cars to drive residents to the vaccination center. I decided to get involved, and I haven’t stopped since.
What does the volunteer work involve?
As a volunteer, I take people to various places. I’ve noticed there’s a great need for this service, and it’s nice to know that I can help. Often, you end up driving the same people regularly. So, they’re not just strangers; you really build a bond with them. For example, I used to drive a gentleman daily to visit his wife in a care home. Eventually, he moved in with her. Shortly after, his wife passed away. I attended the funeral to support him, and now I occasionally visit him to check in.
So, you develop warm connections with the members you drive?
Everyone has different needs, of course. Some people have a lot to share, and I mainly listen. Others prefer to ride in peace and quiet, which is also fine. I always try to adapt to the needs and wishes of the member. For instance, I always drive as close as possible to the member’s house or their destination so they don’t have to cross a busy road.
How often are you volunteering with Mobitwin?
I drive almost daily, but I keep Fridays free. That’s something my wife and I agreed on together.
What would you say to people considering becoming volunteers?
I feel there’s a real need, and we lack volunteers. At the same time, it doesn’t feel like work, it feels like a hobby! And for those who want some extra time to read the newspaper, a book, or scroll through social media: during waiting times, I can read the paper, scroll Facebook, or even take a nap.
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer driver for Mobitwin? You can find more information here (in Dutch).
