AI course completed!
4 February 2025
Mini-interview – Team Leader Field Support Geoffrey van Gils
11 February 2025
A meaningful partnership with SOVAK
SOVAK is a Dutch organisation that supports people with intellectual disabilities by providing housing, education, work, and activities. As part of this mission, SOVAK runs the CSi company restaurant in the Netherlands, a learning and work project that gives clients the opportunity to gain experience in the hospitality sector. This initiative helps them develop professional and social skills in a working environment.
From crafting the perfect sandwich to baking fresh cakes for special occasions, they take pride in their work—and it shows! Many CSi employees know exactly where to go when they need something delicious for a meeting or birthday celebration.
We’re proud of this hardworking team and the positive energy they bring every day. Thank you for your commitment and enthusiasm, you make every lunch break better!
A workplace with opportunities
At this company restaurant, SOVAK clients are responsible for preparing and serving lunch to employees. While learning on the job, they gain valuable experience in a professional setting. To join the team, they must apply for the role, demonstrating an interest in hospitality and the ability to work hygienically and with a certain level of independence.
This initiative has been running since 2013, when supervisor Annette van Onzenoort first launched the project. Some of the clients have been part of the team since the very beginning.
Freshly prepared lunches
The company restaurant is open four days a week, from Monday to Thursday, with a slightly smaller team on Wednesdays. A total of 10 clients rotate shifts, with eight working on-site each day, supported by two supervisors.
The team prepares fresh lunches daily, available for purchase by CSi employees. The menu includes a selection of luxury sandwiches, salads, pasta salads, yoghurt, smoothies, and a many peoples’ favourite: homemade soup. The menu follows a four-week cycle, ensuring variety.
More than just lunch
Beyond food preparation, team members take on various responsibilities, including operating the till, assisting customers, doing laundry, and keeping the buffet and kitchen clean. Tasks are rotated daily to provide diverse learning experiences.
In addition to the daily lunch service, CSi employees can place special orders for client meetings or team lunches. One of the most popular requests is for cakes, especially birthday cakes. Many employees prefer ordering from SOVAK rather than buying pre-made cakes from the supermarket, as they are freshly made, delicious, and more affordable.
This initiative not only provides high-quality meals but also creates meaningful opportunities for SOVAK clients to grow and thrive in a professional setting.
