Thanks to the donations received in 2023, we have been able to finance all ongoing projects and make significant strides in expanding existing successful microfinance projects. Additionally, we have executed all donations with a specified purpose. The solar energy projects for schools and rural homes, which were initiated in 2022, were completed in 2023.
The total donations received in 2023 amount to €147,825. This figure is substantially higher than in 2022 (€125,633). This increase in donations is positively influenced by the board’s decision to earmark all donations from 2023 and 2024 for the expansion of microfinance projects, provided that no specific purpose was given and the funds were not essential for financing ongoing projects. Apparently, providing small loans to women for their businesses is highly appealing. The fund to be reached is therefore “revolving”: with the repayments, new loans are issued again. The income earned by the women improves their position within their families, providing access to sufficient food and enabling their children to attend school. Furthermore, the organization of ‘Self Help’ Groups contributes to women’s empowerment and knowledge development.
A summary and description of the ongoing projects are outlined on the pages preceding this board report. An amount of €101,570 was allocated for child care, education, and social support. This amount also includes expenditures related to donations with a designated purpose. The resources pledged to microfinance projects in 2023 amount to €60,000 for the years 2023 through 2025. The expansion of a microfinance project entails a development period of three years, after which the loan distribution system and the collection of repayments can sustain itself. The commitment for 2024 and 2025, amounting to €40,000, is accounted for under current liabilities.
In 2023, an application was submitted for the expansion of the microfinance project to the Foundation Books Support People from Venlo, the birthplace of Frans Schlooz. The application has been approved. Thanks to a successful book fair, featuring a stand from the Foundation Pater Schlooz, a donation of no less than €20,000 was received in 2024. Given the involvement of the Rotary Club Maas and Peel with the Foundation Books Support People, it is possible that the amount will be further increased in 2024 through grants from the global Rotary organization.
Also in 2023, the costs of management and administration remained below 1% of the donations. To further reduce costs, a bank account was closed in 2023.
In conclusion, I would like to thank Mr. Ravi Kuitems, on behalf of the board, for his dedication to the Foundation Pater Schlooz during his board membership since 2015. We warmly welcome Ms. Francine van Enckevoort-Beurskens to the Advisory Committee. We are also pleased to welcome Mr. Robby Gereards to the Board.
(All amounts in €)
| Year | Income | Donations | Expenses |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 200,430 | 200,970 | 6,571 |
| 2001 | 155,610 | 152,203 | 3,945 |
| 2002 | 124,030 | 157,040 | 3,092 |
| 2003 | 130,579 | 110,154 | 1,244 |
| 2004 | 186,633 | 129,493 | 517 |
| 2005 | 179,401 | 158,087 | 762 |
| 2006 | 183,799 | 173,210 | 729 |
| 2007 | 185,793 | 224,238 | 544 |
| 2008 | 261,161 | 227,714 | 867 |
| 2009 | 288,834 | 253,715 | 817 |
| 2010 | 336,823 | 233,723 | 1,565 |
| 2011 | 411,849 | 381,740 | 1,469 |
| 2012 | 338,064 | 374,315 | 1,533 |
| 2013 | 396,687 | 348,316 | 1,981 |
| 2014 | 247,721 | 398,249* | 3,062 |
| 2015 | 309,184 | 298,976 | 1,626 |
| 2016 | 284,636 | 273,350** | 2,577 |
| 2017 | 174,695 | 230,546 | 1,085 |
| 2018 | 135,032 | 204,500 | 1,398 |
| 2019 | 137,414 | 132,665 | 1,167 |
| 2020 | 130,856 | 130,225 | 784 |
| 2021 | 157,299 | 150,652 | 1,045 |
| 2022 | 125,633 | 139,994 | 847 |
| 2023 | 147,825 | 161,570 | 1,168 |
** Excluding Rotary’s share in the microfinance project.
