August 14, 2020 in Frits Magazine: "Did you know that more than 10% of Eindhoven's residents live below the poverty line? This was true even before corona plunged our country into a crisis. And do you realize that after corona - besides an economic - also a social crisis follows? As a result, the number of people with problems grows. Moreover, the survival of social organizations is endangered and the implementation of their programs gets in trouble. This is especially true for organizations that do not receive subsidies. And that while more and more people will call on these organizations and on the municipality, which will be faced with a heavy task - also financially - and which cannot do it alone."
Read the full article in Frits Magazine
Speaking is Esther Hofstede, founder and director of Samen voor Eindhoven, the organization that connects Brainport companies with civil society organizations. "Fortunately... I also see an enormous solidarity and togetherness with the number of people who help each other and want to help. Moreover, there are -even now- wonderful initiatives with socially important functions. The gems that people get positivity from, that make for a closer society."
The gap between rich and poor widens if we do nothing
Even before the coronavirus reached our country, a more inclusive Eindhoven was on the agenda of the Brainport municipality and business community. A gap is experienced between the well-earning, highly educated Eindhoven knowledge workers on the one hand and those who are struggling on the other. And if we do nothing now, this gap will grow. The consequence? More people with mental health problems, growth in the number of homeless people and people in debt, an increase in domestic violence, loneliness among the elderly, children who cannot participate and derail, unrest on the streets, declining prosperity and well-being. It is to the credit of Eindhoven where Philips' DNA is so deeply rooted. Where we are there for each other. Are we going to let this happen?
The dream
At Samen voor Eindhoven, we constantly ask ourselves what the world would be like if non-profit organizations, which run on volunteers, had access to the same facilities as large companies. Access to the same knowledge, skills, networks and resources in areas such as strategy, marketing and social media management, finance, IT, organizational consulting and development. What would the world look like then? We are convinced that it would substantially narrow the gap between joining and dropping out. It would make our society more balanced and significantly improve our prosperity and well-being.
Moral leadership shows itself, especially in difficult times. The hospitality industry is struggling. Yet Samen voor Eindhoven still coordinates the same group of committed hotels that has been working for years to make weekly soup and sandwiches for the homeless people who visit the Salvation Army's Soup Bus. Even now. Or should I say just now? And how about that involved ICT entrepreneur who developed a smart IT solution to connect help seekers and volunteers.
Philips DNA
We believe that, as a company, focusing solely on making a profit does not give you the right to exist in the long run. This does apply to companies that add value to the environment and have an eye and compassion for their fellow man. Just as Philips did. The so-called Philips DNA. Of course, we are now pouring that added value into a new form that fits our times. This is the time to make the economy sustainable and social. It is important that companies and their leaders show their moral compass. Especially here, in our beautiful prosperous Brainport, the smartest region in the world.
Inclusive society
We are always looking for like-minded Brainport entrepreneurs who are committed and want to join forces to develop structural, multi-year programs on the themes of poverty, health and well-being. Companies that support the acceleration of digital transformation at civil society organizations and help increase the impact of these organizations. Our region has many smart companies. Based on our strong network, we know exactly where the needs are in the region. Let's build a program together with companies, combining the use of coins, knowledge and employees. That way we make impact together and close the gap between rich and poor and ensure a more inclusive society. Together for Eindhoven, together for Brainport.