In Heerenveen, the focus has been on improving well-being, health, and prevention for years. For Diana Elsinga, Policy Coordinator for the Social Domain, this also meant examining what people with dementia and their caregivers need to remain active in society for as long as possible. That search led her to 2MakeItHappen.
From Need to Research
Diana noticed that the existing services didn’t always align with residents’ daily realities.
“We wanted to understand what people with dementia and their loved ones themselves consider important,” she explains. “Not from a policy perspective, but based on their experiences.”
That research required funding.
“For the ZonMw grant application, we were looking for someone who could help us brainstorm and draft the proposal. We wanted to get it right.”
That marked the beginning of their collaboration.
Refining plans together
What Diana was looking for above all else was a substantive partner who could help refine the idea.
“2MakeItHappen helped us turn the plan into a compelling proposal,” she explains. “Their knowledge of grants and how to craft a strong narrative was truly invaluable.”
That initial application was approved. And when the next phase began—further developing the range of daytime activities—it made sense to continue working together.
Contribute ideas and get involved
According to Diana, 2MakeItHappen stands out because of the way it works.
“What I found really valuable is that they don’t just offer advice from the sidelines,” she says.
“They simply sat down with us, brainstormed with our partners, and actively helped draft the application. That really built our confidence.”
They were always there at local meetings.
“It really became a shared story. Everyone felt involved.”
Tangible results for residents
The project has clearly set something in motion in Heerenveen.
“We now have a wide range of offerings that truly meet the needs of people with dementia,” says Diana. “Partner discussion groups, storytelling sessions, the Danspaleis, neighborhood exercise programs, Football Memories—these are all activities that help people stay engaged.”
Cooperation in the region has grown stronger as a result.
“Many different organizations are now involved,” she says. “Social services, sports, culture, churches, volunteers… that connection makes the range of services broader and easier to find.”
During the project period, a dementia wellness coach served as the central link.
“That specific role no longer exists,” says Diana.
“But the knowledge is now more widely distributed throughout the entire team. As a result, many more residents are now benefiting from it.”
She sees the results every day.
“Informal caregivers feel less alone. People are finding suitable activities more quickly. There’s more awareness of the issue. It’s really made a difference.”
From idea to impact
When asked about the essence of the project, Diana says:
“We’ve combined residents’ wishes with the power of collaboration. This has resulted in an offering that truly contributes to quality of life.”
Why 2MakeItHappen?
For organizations that are unsure, her advice is clear.
“If you don’t have all the expertise in-house, ask for help. 2MakeItHappen knows exactly what’s needed. They offer practical insights and guide you through the process step by step.”
She immediately saw the added value.
“Without them, both ZonMw grant applications probably wouldn’t have been approved.”
Fundraising as a driving force
Fundraising remains an important tool within her organization.
“It gives us the freedom to do things that wouldn’t otherwise be possible,” she says.
“Especially in the social sector, that makes a huge difference.”
In three words?
By the end of the conversation, Diana doesn't have to think twice.
