VROUW KIND CENTRUM

VKC De Spiegeling
Langegracht 57
2312 NW Leiden
Tel: 071 5233480
Website: www.vkcdespiegeling.nl

What is the VKC?

The VKC De Spiegeling is a women's centre. It's an amazing organization; entirely volunteer run, situated at Langegracht 57 where events, courses and classes are held, as well as drop-in sessions, an internet café, and an international lunch every Thursday. It is run by women, for women, and aims to support women of all ages, races, backgrounds and beliefs to develop their strengths, find support and friendship, and share their skills with others.

What can I do there?

There are various classes held at the VKC, all of which are provided with free volunteer childcare: an amazing provision for all mums! The classes are extremely affordable and run by volunteers (they cost around 1,50 to 2,00). Visit the website at www.vkcdespiegeling.nl and go to Activiteiten to see a list of what is on each week. These include an internet café with computer lessons, Dutch lessons, English lessons, jewellery making, yoga, and sewing lessons. You can get lunch there almost every day and meet other women. It's a great place to meet people, learn new stuff, put your children in a Dutch-speaking environment - and practise your own Dutch!

It is also a safe place to go (during opening hours at least) if you are looking for help (for instance due to domestic violence).

How can I get involved?

Do you have something to share? The VKC is always on the look out for people with an idea or skill that they would like to share, or who have some time to give something to the local community. If you have a skill you would like to share with others (e.g. teaching a language, sport or craft) or would like to help as a volunteer in other ways, do email info@vkcdespiegeling.nl. Many of the volunteers there speak English (as well as several other languages) but the 'official' language is Dutch, as the emphasis is on integration.