WILLEMSTAD – As part of its 75th anniversary celebrations in 2025, the Vereniging voor Protestants Christelijk Onderwijs (VPCO), together with its affiliated schools, selected CliniClowns Curaçao as the charitable cause linked to its jubilee year. Thanks to the collective efforts of students, teachers, and parents, a total of XCG 14,000 was raised to support the work of CliniClowns on the island.
Throughout the anniversary year, students and school teams were introduced to the work of CliniClowns Curaçao at various moments. Through school visits and an educational program, more than 3,000 students and over 400 staff members learned about where and how the clowns operate, including in hospitals, elderly care facilities, and locations serving people with disabilities.
During these sessions, CliniClowns Curaçao explained their role in care environments where stress, uncertainty, or long-term treatment plays a significant role. The clowns focus on creating contact and providing distraction, tailoring their approach to the needs of each individual moment, with attention for both clients and those around them.
In addition to these introductions, each participating school organized its own fundraising activities. Together, these initiatives resulted in a total donation of XCG 14,000. The funds will enable CliniClowns Curaçao to continue its visits to various healthcare and care institutions across Curaçao.
CliniClowns Curaçao expressed its appreciation to VPCO for choosing the organization as the designated charity for the jubilee year. According to the organization, the collaboration highlights how schools can play not only an educational role, but also make a meaningful contribution to social initiatives on the island.
Pictured at the presentation are VPCO Director of Operations Nico de Bel, VPCO Board Member Thea Bierman, CliniClowns Curaçao Director Jet Thoonen, and CliniClowns Yolanda Faneyt and Annelies Boekholt.
