Centrepoint’s anniversary apero on 15 October 2026

Centrepoint’s more than thirty-year history was celebrated on 15 October by a large number of members. Some from the earliest days, including one of the founders, Janet (Jan) Hawley, and volunteer Roger Bonner, were also present.

After a glass of prosecco, Centrepoint’s president, Jan-Willem van Wijk, warmly welcomed those present. Following a brief introduction to more than 30 years of Centrepoint, he handed the floor to Jan.

Roger Bonner, Jan-Willem van Wijck and Jan Hawley

Together with Roger Bonner, she was named Volunteer of the Month (VoM) for October. She referred to a comprehensive historical overview on the website and also shared her personal experiences from Centrepoint’s earliest days. Roger then recounted his own experiences, after which Anna Frick, Centrepoint’s prospective new president, outlined her vision for the future.

Two generations of Centrepoint volunteers

Representatives of the older, current and new generations then cut the birthday cake and shared it with the other guests. Afterwards, many members and former members caught up with one another, sometimes after not having seen each other for years.

Jan-Willem van Wijck, Anna Frick (president to be of Centrepoint) and Giok Zaat (Activities Coordinator)

The customary apéro also contributed to the festive atmosphere which has been something Centrepoint’s apéro team has always been relied upon to do.

Impression of the famous Centrepoint apero and Dana Tharp