Mama's Garden was started ten years ago and, together with Daddy's Place, have grown into a special community for mothers and fathers in Rotterdam South. The programmes offered an accessible place for meeting, exchanging ideas and personal growth, and formed an inspiring learning environment for students, as well as providing a valuable source of practical insights. The programmes have made the challenges of parenting visible and discussable, supporting many parents and enabling students to learn in a practical way. Care professionals, researchers, and authorities have learnt a great deal from this. The programmes received a lot of attention, both nationally and regionally.
Communities based on trust
Continuing the programmes does not appear to be a viable option for the Centre of Expertise Social Innovation (EMI). The social work required to maintain communities is not structurally compatible with either the Centre of Expertise or RUAS. Unfortunately, it has also proved impossible to transfer the communities to another organisation or foundation, as they are based on personal relationships of trust.
Activities will continue until the summer, after which the Centre of Expertise Social Innovation – RUAS will make room for new projects and research that continue to drive social innovation. The Centre of Expertise Social Innovation – RUAS would like to thank all the parents, students, researchers and others involved who contributed to this movement. Together, we have made an impact.