Celebrating the Heart of Play for Peace Assen

In 2025, the Compliment van Drenthe award honored volunteer groups making extraordinary contributions to their communities, with a special focus on initiatives led by young people. Naturally, we knew Play4Peace Assen had to be part of this celebration.

Out of more than 50 groups, we were thrilled to find ourselves among the five nominees! In the weeks leading up to the award ceremony, excitement grew. Our team gave a radio interview, appeared in a promotional video, and even featured in a regional newspaper article. The energy was contagious—everyone was eager to see the impact of our young volunteers recognized.

The Award Ceremony: December 11, Drenthe Province

The entire team boarded a touring car, generously sponsored by a local bus company, and made the journey to the provincial government building. Expectations were high. While the main prize went to a group with over 24 years of experience, our team—active for just over a year—was awarded the Encouragement Prize along with a check for €1,000.

Even more meaningful were the words of the jury:

“PLAY4PEACE puts a smile on the faces of children in the asylum seekers center and emergency shelter in Assen. Sports, games, and music are organized for and by young people, allowing them to enjoy a carefree time. With enthusiasm, energy, and tireless dedication, the young people of Play4Peace create happier days and a positive atmosphere. The jury was particularly impressed by how these young people, who themselves come from similar backgrounds, dedicate themselves to helping others and learn so much from it.”

This recognition wasn’t just about the prize—it was a celebration of our young volunteers, their dedication, and the joy they bring to children every day.

A Hero’s Welcome

Returning to the refugee center, the team was greeted with a heartwarming surprise. Outside, in the cold, children and parents waited to welcome our heroes with music, applause, and cheers. The moment felt like winning the World Cup!

Inside, the celebration continued with all the children and our beloved location manager, Klaas, who has become like a grandfather to everyone in the camp. The highlight of the day? The reveal of the new Play4Peace t-shirt, in royal blue with the logo proudly displayed—a symbol of unity and identity for our team.

Continuing the Celebration

The very next day, December 12, the celebrations expanded to include the entire Play4Peace team and all children and residents in the emergency shelter. For the first time, the whole team presented themselves in the new Play4Peace outfits, a joyful symbol of community, pride, and belonging.

This story of Play4Peace Assen isn’t just about an award—it’s about young people stepping up, spreading joy, and building community through play. It’s about recognition, celebration, and the powerful reminder that even small initiatives can create big smiles, hope, and change.

✨ Here’s to the spirit of Play4Peace—where play becomes a bridge, and young people become heroes.

Inspired by these young peacemakers? Read more stories from our global community at playforpeace.org/stories, or support their work with a gift.