A hopeful movement
​
The impact of ThirtyThree is profound and tangible: lives are changed, self-confidence
gets a powerful boost and doors to a hopeful future open. In the heart of
Zwolle is growing a movement that not only supports young people, but also enables them
to reach their full potential and make a meaningful contribution to the world
around them. Built on a biblical foundation of love, grace, and hope, we believe in
second chances and a hopeful future.
ROMY (22), VISITOR OF
THIRTYTHREE
"ThirtyThree has completely changed my life. After years of foster families and deep pain, I felt broken, lost, and even suicidal — something you could literally see on my body. But since being here for just 2.5 months, I’m no longer alone. I feel like I truly belong somewhere — like I have a family. Through the conversations, counseling, and the fact that they also pray for me, I’ve started to heal. Where I used to sit on the couch in silence and brokenness, I now get excited about painting walls, designing postcards, and actively helping to build this community. ThirtyThree gives me hope, strength, and a new beginning."
MICHA (24), VISITOR OF THIRTYTHREE
ThirtyThree feels like coming home to a place I didn't know I was looking for. It's not just a building on Voorstraat, but a place full of warmth, safety, and genuine connection. There's no judging here. Here you can fall, and you will be picked up again. As a first-year university student, I came here searching for peace and direction – and I found so much more than that. Since I got involved with ThirtyThree, something changed in me: I dare to show myself, to be vulnerable, and at the same time to become stronger than I ever was. What strikes me most is how there is room here for who you are and who you can become. Talents that have been developing for years hidden, come to life here. People discover that they have something to give – whether it's creative leadership or caring. ThirtyThree is not an end point, but a springboard. This is a place where lives start anew and where dreams dare to grow again.'
PROF. DR. ERIK SCHERDER, PROFESSOR OF NEUROPSYCHOLOGY
'I have been closely involved with ThirtyThree from the very beginning, because this initiative touches precisely what science teaches us: environment matters. ThirtyThree offers young people an enriched
environment – rich in stimuli, connection, safety and personal attention – and that is precisely what is essential for brain development. In this setting, young people build resilience, intrinsic motivation
tie and self-confidence – building blocks that not only make them stronger now, but that will continue to have an impact far into the future.
in their adult lives. What happens here is invaluable for both their personal growth
as for society.'
GERDIEN ROTS,
DEPUTY MAYOR OF ZWOLLE
'ThirtyThree is a place where young people truly feel seen. That makes a world of difference. We see lives changed, because young people can catch their breath here and discover their future.
Zwolle is richer thanks to ThirtyThree. It gives young people perspective, and that is perhaps the most powerful—
most effective form of prevention there is.'
ROBERT NISSINK , CEO NISSINK BUSINESS GLASS
'Thirtythree bridges the gap between education and the labor market by providing students and young people
to connect with the business community in an accessible way. This connection, which society is laid out widely, creates valuable opportunities to get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere welcome addition in a tight labor market. The youth center serves as a meeting place for talented students and young professionals who want to develop, share knowledge and want to expand their network.'