September 10, 2024
At Joanknecht, we believe in working together. We create synergy. We strive to make a difference. That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Joanknecht Foundation—a new initiative born out of our commitment to these values. Marlies Vervoordeldonk, our foundation’s president, shares, “After the internal launch, the best compliment we received was our colleagues’ enthusiasm. The outpouring of support, encouragement, and applications was incredible. It was the perfect start!”
The Joanknecht Foundation was inspired by our renewed vision for sustainability. Marlies explains, “We’re not interested in greenwashing. We want real, tangible results. The foundation allows us to achieve our strategic sustainability goals in a meaningful way. As an advisory organization, we have a responsibility beyond our everyday work to contribute socially. This isn’t just for our clients, colleagues, or partners, but for the broader community as well. We know we can’t change the world overnight. So, we focus on where it matters most: the Brainport region, our home for many years.”
Marlies continues, “Working together to build something better is energizing. We want to create something that truly makes life more enjoyable and better for as many people in our area as possible.”
The Power of Collaboration
Strength in numbers. Facing a big challenge is easier when you don’t face it alone. That’s why we partnered with Brainport voor Elkaar. Julia Swinkels, our foundation’s secretary, explains, “Brainport voor Elkaar is an alliance of employers, educators, and government organizations who are committed to the region’s well-being. Together, we tackle social issues head-on, building a socially strong and economically successful Brainport. Our partnership has been a fantastic launchpad, and we couldn’t be happier!”
Gavin Vree, our treasurer, adds, “We’ve had incredible support from the start. Joanknecht provided a generous start-up fee, and we’ve set aside a budget specifically for foundation activities. Plus, our colleagues can dedicate a few work hours each year to these initiatives.”
Different backgrounds, shared goals—that’s what unites us. “We all have the same drive,” says Marlies, “to improve, to innovate, to strengthen. The Joanknecht Foundation gives us all a chance to align our work with our ideals. It’s about adding more meaning to what we do. And we want everyone involved, that’s why we’ve opened a suggestion box for colleagues to share their ideas and passions.”
Julia shares her hopes, “I want to see great involvement in the Joanknecht Foundation. A lot of cooperation. And, most importantly, that we achieve amazing things together.”
Getting Started Right Away
We’re not wasting any time. The board, along with Brainport voor Elkaar, has already planned several activities. The first two are just around the corner, and Joanknecht colleagues are invited to join in. Julia says, “In September, we have a gardening session planned with ‘Kansen voor Kinderen’. In October, we’ll be taking asylum seekers to the Philips Museum, where they can interact with each other to stimulate integration.”
But that’s not all. We’re also organizing initiatives that draw on Joanknecht’s unique expertise. Gavin explains, “We’re an accountancy and advisory firm at heart. Many of our colleagues are eager to offer their professional skills to the foundation. By leveraging these talents, we can make a truly unique impact.”