ACCESS

Published: 17 November 2009 Modified: 06 February 2012

Established in 1986, ACCESS is a not-for-profit organisation committed to supporting the international expatriate community in the Netherlands.

The Administrative Committee to Coordinate English Speaking Services (ACCESS) was the grass root initiative of the members of the international community in the Netherlands. They felt the pressing need for an organisation that would answer their needs, provide peer support and help cope with the challenges of expatriate living.

Today ACCESS has evolved into a dynamic volunteer, not-for-profit organisation that serves the needs and interests of the international community by:

providing guidance, advice, information to help individuals with settling, and/or living and working in the Netherlands
promoting friendship, understanding and well-being of the members of the international community in the Netherlands
contributing to community development through skill training schemes and courses
serving as a bridge between local and international communities

Well into its 25th year ACCESS has become synonymous with outstanding personalised service, empathy and insight.

Volunteer opportunities

All ACCESS volunteers, trainers, counsellors, Dutch or international, have been expatriates themselves and know first hand what the extra hurdles are to living away from a familiar environment. They add value to what we do, and how we do it. Just as importantly, they do so voluntarily - generously giving their time, sharing their unique skills, experience and diverse cultural backgrounds.

Please visit the website for more information on volunteering opportunities within ACCESS.