On Wednesday, September 28, 2016, Her Majesty Queen Maxima of the Netherlands attended the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Stichting Participatie, Integratie en Emancipatie Zoetermeer (Piëzo) in Zoetermeer.

According to RVD, the foundation:

“…focuses on people in vulnerable situations and gives them support in finding their way in society.

Ten years ago, the foundation has devised its own method to teach people to develop their talents and abilities. These ‘Piezo Methodology’ uses a five-step plan. The intended end result is that the participants are given sufficient basis for example, to get an education, to participate in the workforce or to volunteer. Piezo works partly with volunteers who have completed the program.

In 2006, the foundation began in one location. Today, there are four ‘Piezo Centres’ in Zoetermeer.  At these locations participants can follow the whole program. There is also a Piezo Support Centre. Since the focus is on the first three steps of the program; increase self-confidence and social empowerment; inventory of meaningful activities and participation in learning paths. There is also a craft workshop set up where people learn to self odd jobs to do around the house.” 

Please click here and here to view photos.

Photo courtesy of RVD/HKH