Supervisor Cocktail COC Friesland (LGBT+ newcomers)

Do you live in Friesland and want to contribute to a warmer, more inclusive society? Are you social, open and do you have time and energy to make others feel welcome? Then join us as a volunteer for the Cocktail Project at COC Friesland!

What is Cocktail?
Cocktail is a nationwide initiative by the COC, especially for LGBTQA+ refugees and newcomers. For many people, it is not natural to be able to be openly themselves. Even in the Netherlands, newcomers sometimes feel lonely or unsafe. Cocktail offers encounters where people feel seen, heard and supported.

What will you do as a volunteer?
You will rotate in the team that organises and supervises the monthly meetings. Your contribution may include:

• Welcoming visitors hospitably and ensuring a safe, warm atmosphere;
• Contributing ideas on programme content (such as talks, workshops or creative activities);
• Assist with implementation (e.g. preparing the room, arranging food and drinks);
• Keeping in touch with participants or organisations involved.

What do we ask of you?
You don't have to be an expert by experience. What is more important is that you are open and respectful of people. We are looking for volunteers who:

• Being social, empathetic and listening;
• Have an affinity with LGBTQA+ and/or migration;
• Be able to attend the meeting at least once a month (and prepare if possible);
• Speak Dutch or English (multiple languages is a plus);
• Firmly grounded and able to work with diverse backgrounds;
• Willing to apply for a VOG (arranged through us free of charge).

What do you get in return?

• You really mean something in the lives of LGBTQA+ newcomers;
• You will receive training and guidance from COC Friesland;
• You will work with an engaged and inspiring team of volunteers;
• Volunteer outings, access to national meetings and membership at COC Friesland;
• Travel allowance and plenty of room for your ideas.

Interested?
Would you like to contribute to a warm welcome for LGBTQA+ newcomers in Friesland? Send a short motivation and your contact details to vrijwilligers@cocfriesland.nl. We will contact you soon for an introductory meeting.

Together, we make Friesland safer, friendlier and more colourful for everyone.

What does COC Friesland offer you as a Cocktail supervisor?
As a facilitator at Cocktail, you will have a meaningful role in the lives of LGBTQA+ newcomers. You will contribute to a safe place where people feel welcome and can truly be themselves. You will not be alone: you will receive guidance from COC Friesland and work together with an inspiring team of enthusiastic volunteers.

You will also become a member of COC Netherlands, allowing you to participate in volunteer outings and be connected to a broad community. We will also reimburse your travel expenses and give you access to (inter)national network meetings, where you can gain inspiration and new insights.

What does COC Friesland ask of you as a Cocktail supervisor?
We are looking for someone who has an affinity with the LGBTQA+ community and can empathise with the lives of newcomers and refugees. You are empathic, reliable and know how to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere. You are a good listener, but also enjoy leading a conversation or activity. Experience in counselling, education, care or social work is welcome, but certainly not a requirement - motivation and commitment are more important to us.

We also ask that you are available on average one evening a month for meetings in Leeuwarden (and at locations in Friesland), and are willing to attend occasional consultations with fellow supervisors. You are open to cooperation, can deal with diversity and have the flexibility to respond to the needs of the group.