Target groups and mission

The Maagdenhuis supports the social initiatives of organisations that help target groups to fend for themselves better in the long run. It has wide-reaching objectives; our foundation focuses particularly on renovation projects for the elderly and for young persons. The last years special emphasis is placed on projects of/for ethnic minorities and street children. There are some spearhead projects, which are carried out by one of our own workgroups, consisting of board members of the Maagdenhuis and professionals/external members.
The Maagdenhuis supports projects both at home and abroad.
In developing countries, there is a preference for small-scale projects, which have been started by the local population. The foundation supports projects, sometimes with the help of well-known contacts, if it can guide the project, or at least monitor its progress.
Projects focused on emergency aid are not included in its objectives.
Within the region of Amsterdam, projects of local significance are also supported. If necessary, the foundation itself takes initiatives to make modernisation possible or to bring together the persons involved.

The Maagdenhuis is also involved in modernisation by

• locating new needs;
• making contact with the target groups concerned and
• where possible, supporting projects on site.

This pro-active stance is typical of the social role that the Maagdenhuis wants to fulfil.  Not just waiting to see what turns up, but also observing and trying to get in touch with new target groups, tap into networks and trying to bring them into contact with one another.