Leeuwarden-based organisation wins second prize at the National Volunteer Awards

The “Maatjes ex-gedetineerden Friesland” (MEF) project, run by Solidair Friesland, has won second prize in the Social Capital category at the 2026 National Volunteering Awards. MEF matches volunteers with (ex-)prisoners and people with a forensic record who need an approachable mentor. Volunteers lend a listening ear, accompany them to appointments, go for walks or play sport together, and help them reconnect with society step by step. The jury wrote, amongst other things: “Week in, week out, Solidair Friesland stands alongside (ex-)prisoners as they find their way back. Without judgement, with patience, and with an eye for what a person can still build. In this way, these volunteers are building safe, strong communities where a second chance is part of the picture.” Congratulations on this wonderful award!

Further information about the Volunteer Awards

Photo: Fardou from Solidair Friesland receives an award