Ria Vergouwen Receives the "Pearl of Voorschoten" Award
Ria Vergouwen received a “Pearl of Voorschoten” award today. She was honored for her many years of volunteer work with the Voorschoten Women’s Network. Mayor Nadine Stemerdink presented the award during the network’s New Year’s gathering at the Bondsgebouw.
Ria Vergouwen and her husband, Mayor Stemerdink, and the new chairwoman, Yvonne Molenkamp
Ria received the award for her many years of volunteer work with the Voorschoten Women’s Network, a network for active, modern, and self-assured women that focuses on bringing people together. By organizing a wide variety of activities, the network hopes to contribute to the personal development, creativity, and social networks of its more than 300 members.
Privatization and Digitization
In 2013, Ria became chair of the Voorschoten chapter of the Royal NVVH Women’s Network. She played a key role in the network’s transition to independence and its digitization. Under her leadership, the Voorschoten Women’s Network was founded in September 2019. After nearly 12 years, Ria is stepping down as chair this month.
Gouwwal Foundation
In addition to her volunteer work for the Voorschoten Women’s Network, Ria is active with the Gouwwal Foundation, which she founded in June 2022. This foundation encourages and supports the talents of young adults with disabilities who, for whatever reason, need extra guidance on their life journey.