New resident evening
WWW October 31st 2011
Those three letters above this article do not refer to the worldwide web, nor to a certain political party in Wassenaar. They refer to the Warm Welcome in Wassenaar, that was organized by the Municipality of Wassenaar for the new residents. These popular and extremely well-organized meetings are held twice a year ( March and October) and provide newcomers with a wealth of information.
True to its reputation of being a cosmopolitan town – after all almost 30% of Wassenaar’s residents are expats! – all information was given both in Dutch and English. Held in two elegant rooms of “Raadhuis de Paauw” ( that impressive white building that can be seen when driving on highway N 44 ) it was clear that the Municipality had gone out of its way to make the newcomers feel welcome. Not only by handing out very useful information, showing power-point presentations and an intriguing slide-show of historical snapshots of Wassenaar, but above all by the personal touch that was felt throughout the whole event. Even before the actual program had started, drinks and snacks were being served and the Mayor, aldermen and other employees of the Municipality mingled with the attendees and made themselves available to anybody who might have a question or a remark.
Several organizations had set up information-booths in the elegant “mirror-hall” and the wedding room, handing out useful information to the guests. The public library of Wassenaar, firebrigade- museum, The Hague Guest Card, retailers-association and the organization of volunteers were present among others.
Also a bilingual presentation was given on how to navigate the website of Wassenaar. Concerning the website, it was clear that the Municipality had gone “the extra mile” as even extracts of the website were available. This was indicative for the thoroughness with which the Municipality went about organizing this informative evening.
The Mayor and the aldermen (three aldermen and one alderwoman to be exact) also introduced themselves and each held a short but interesting presentation concerning his or her tasks. Afterwards drinks were served again and there was ample opportunity for all attendees to mingle, ask questions and meet new people.
Having myself lived in many different countries all over the world, I can say that a welcome-gathering like the one organized by “de gemeente Wassenaar” is truly unique.
Bonnie Klap
