"Thanks to your support, we can be ready for those who need us."

A conversation with Dirk van Beem, president of Hamme Branch.

At Red Cross-Hamme, they are grateful. Not just a little, but really grateful. Because thanks to the support of many donors they can continue to expand their work and help people. Department Chairman Dirk explains what that support means in concrete terms:

"Every gift, big or small, makes a difference!" stabs Dirk. "Without financial help, our volunteers cannot perform their tasks. Thanks to your support, we can purchase the right equipment and provide assistance professionally and efficiently."

Concrete difference for local operation

The proceeds from the Local Support Action were immediately put to good use. "We were recently able to invest in new CPR manikins and AED training equipment," Dirk explains. "This purchase was much needed: the demand for First Aid courses continues to grow and our equipment was in urgent need of replacement."

The difference is immediately noticeable. "With the new equipment, we can teach more classes, and do so with better and more efficient equipment." And the impact? It's huge:

"A few weeks later, a participant in our AED training successfully resuscitated a jogger in his mid-30s. Today that man can resume his athletic life - with a built-in defibrillator. That's what we do it for."

Collaboration and efficient use

AED trainings in Hamme are a great success. "The Local Administration invests heavily in training. In principle, it is sufficient if 10% of their employees take an AED course, but in Hamme it is no less than 90%! Even the entire Board of Mayor and Aldermen is coming by at the end of September."

There is also smooth cooperation between departments. "The dolls and equipment are shared with Temse and Waasmunster, so that every euro gets the maximum return."

Our volunteers: the beating heart of Red Cross Hamme

The volunteers also feel the impact of the support. "For them a good atmosphere is important, but solid material is just as important. We involve them in purchases, that way they see the evolution and also want to help, for example in the distribution of letters."

Small improvements make a big difference. "Our new tent is a great example of that: more visible, lighter to set up and kinder to the backs of our emergency workers."

What gives Dirk personal satisfaction? "When the operation runs well and our volunteers are happy. They are our most important capital. I want to stand between them, listen and support. It's not about me, it's about us together."

We continue to look ahead

Red Cross Hamme has existed for 161 years, and they are determined to continue for a long time to come. "We want to continue to grow and work efficiently. For that we need volunteers as well as resources."

Would you also like to help?

• Anyone with positive energy is welcome in our service center.
• Take a class, stop by the emergency services day or support us during the Fortnight with the Band-Aid Sale.
• You can also contribute through the Local Support Action with a financial gift.