We regularly put someone in the limelight who works for a cleaner neighbourhood. This time it is Dick Roodhorst from Ameide. He has been picking up litter since he retired in 2021. This way, he enjoys being outdoors and being useful at the same time. Dick talks enthusiastically about what drives him and why he enjoys helping.
Volunteering without an agenda
When Dick stopped working, he looked for voluntary work that suited him. 'I wanted to do something where I can organise my time myself, without having a fixed schedule. During my working life, I already had enough commitments and it seemed wonderful to say goodbye to that now. Litter picking turned out to be perfect because I can choose when I go.'
Environmentally aware and active
Dick thinks it is important to take good care of the environment. 'At home we separate our waste, we have solar panels and drive a hybrid car. Those are all things that help, but picking up litter is something you can easily do every day. It's nice to take a walk and do something good at the same time.'
Dick's regular route runs along the beautiful river Lek, where he enjoys the beautiful view. 'It's just nice to be outdoors. Sometimes I chat with people from the village walking their dogs, and it feels good to make the environment a bit cleaner.'
Fags and beer cups
What he finds most often? 'Cigarette butts! Cigarette filters are really everywhere. And at a place where many young people chill in summer, I once found 24 beer caps. They had probably handed in the crate, but left the caps. Oh well, I was young too,' Dick smiles.
Compliments are a bonus
Dick is not the only one working for a cleaner village. In Ameide, there are some 45 volunteers, also known as "Lekprikkers", who keep the neighbourhood clean together. Under the name "Sustainable Ameide", these residents have been working together on all kinds of sustainable initiatives since 2020. Besides picking up litter, there are also a repair café and a shared-car initiative, for example.'
Dick regularly gets compliments from people walking by when he is busy. 'That's nice, of course, but I do it mainly because it feels good to contribute to a clean and nice environment.'
Get involved and make a difference
Dick shows that you can make a big difference with something as simple as picking up litter. Would you also like to do something for a cleaner neighbourhood? Take a look at the website of Sustainable Ameide and find out how you can help.