About us
Erik's personal story and the start of Eindhoven Maatjes
Eindhoven Maatjes brings people in Eindhoven together and was created from Erik's personal experience with loneliness. On this page you can read how an initial idea grew into an initiative, which moments were important and which people built it together.
“I want to do something to my own situation and that of others.” That personal intention formed the beginning of Eindhoven Maatjes and everything that followed.
Our story
A call in the Eindhovens Dagblad to meet new people
2021
A newspaper article on Christmas Eve 2021
On Friday, December 24, 2021, Erik Bukkems openly shared his story about loneliness in the Eindhovens Dagblad. He wanted to break the taboo, get to know new people and convert his own experience into something with which he could help others.
The start of Eindhoven Maatjes
Through the newspaper article, Erik came into contact with people from Eindhoven and the surrounding area, who each sometimes felt lonely in their own way. On March 14, 2022, they came together for a brainstorming session and Eindhoven Maatjes was born: a group that organizes fun activities together, such as barbecues, picnics and game nights, where everyone is welcome to join.
2022
2024
Establishment of foundation
In 2022 and 2023, Eindhoven Maatjes grew further by organizing a variety of meeting activities. From this solid foundation, the Impulsmakers Foundation was founded in 2024. The foundation forms the umbrella for various initiatives, including Eindhoven Maatjes, and makes it possible to continue building a professional and future-proof organization.
From a small idea to a big movement
Today, Eindhoven Maatjes has grown into a lively community. As part of the Impulsmakers Foundation, we organize activities and meetings together with volunteers throughout the year. We have grown considerably, but our goal is still the same: to ensure that no one has to stand alone.
Now
I founded Eindhoven Maatjes from my own experiences with loneliness. I enjoy doing fun things with other people.
Erik
Initiator
What we stand for
Our core
01
Accessible
We know what it feels like to feel lonely. That experience is the basis of everything we do.
02
Without judgment
We organize activities for and with each other. Everyone is welcome and participates.
03
Everyone contributes
We nemen onszelf niet te serieus — plezier staat altijd voorop.
