Residents in IJburg and Amsterdam Oost have the chance to put local community champions in the spotlight through a new neighbourhood initiative called Make it Matter.
The campaign is organised by Winkelcentrum IJburg and Winkelcentrum Oostpoort to give recognition to people who support others and foster local connection.
Nominations are open for anyone who plays a positive role in their surroundings, including helpful neighbours, volunteers, informal caregivers, and family members.
Shared treats from local shops
In addition to submitting nominations, visitors can contribute by donating local connection moments through a dedicated campaign menu.
Business owners in the shopping centres are supplying products, services, and experiences for the campaign, such as a coffee for two, a lunch, or a bunch of flowers.
The initiative is designed to encourage direct social encounters, meaning the donated treats are meant to be enjoyed together by the nominee and the person who put them forward.
Events planned for September
A maximum of 50 nominees will be selected for each of the two shopping centres from all submitted entries.
The selected nominees and their nominators will be invited to a special event day at their local shopping centre to receive a Make it Matter box.
Each box will be filled with vouchers for the donated experiences, which can be redeemed together at participating local shops at a later time.
Highlighting the personal stories behind the nominations is also a central part of the campaign, showcasing the many ways residents contribute to community life across the area.
The special event will take place at Winkelcentrum IJburg on Saturday 12 September and at Winkelcentrum Oostpoort on Saturday 19 September.
