Today, the Oranje Fonds kicks off its search for exceptional projects that are eligible for an Appeltje van Oranje 2021. This year’s theme is ‘Mental Strength’, and the prizes are centered on projects aimed at improving the state of mind of people who are having mental difficulties. Applications may be submitted until November 7th, through oranjefonds.nl/appeltjes. In May, three initiatives will receive an Appeltje van Oranje from the hands of Queen Máxima.
It could happen to anyone; not being able to fully participate in society because of mental health issues. Maybe because you feel depressed, have an eating disorder or an obsessive-compulsive disorder, or you’re having panic attacks. These issues may be temporary, or maybe you’ll have to deal with them your entire life. Mental problems arise for a variety of reasons and affect all walks of life. Fortunately, there are many projects within our Kingdom that aim to support and guide these people with the help of volunteers, so that they can participate in our society. This year, these projects are eligible to be awarded an Appeltje van Oranje.
Being yourself
Sandra Jetten, president of the Oranje Fonds: “Whenever people are dealing with mental problems, it is extremely valuable for them to have someone who involves them in society. Someone who is not a professional caregiver. Someone who supports them, who helps them to overcome obstacles and to move forward in life. These people then get the feeling they are allowed to be themselves and that someone is looking out for them. We kindly invite all social initiatives through which this is made possible to submit their entry for the Appeltjes van Oranje 2021.”
The prizes
The Appeltjes van Oranje are awarded annually to three initiatives that successfully connect different groups of people, or that contribute to people being able to participate in society again. All winners of an Appeltje van Oranje receive a bronze statuette, made by Princess Beatrix, and a cash prize of 15,000 euros. Every year, Queen Máxima awards the prizes. Every fifth anniversary, King Willem-Alexander is the one to present the awards.
Oranje Fonds
The Oranje Fonds builds towards a more socially responsible, inclusive society, where people look out for each other. That is why it mobilizes, empowers and supports as many people and organizations as possible, that make sure no one is on their own within society. The support is given in the form of inspiration, advice, expertise and funds. The lotteries Nationale Postcode Loterij and Nederlandse Loterij, Friends and the corporate sector, among others, enable the Fonds to keep doing its work. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima are the patrons of the Oranje Fonds.
