A group of enthusiastic volunteers travels with the Babbelbus through 12 neighborhoods of Lanaken, inviting residents for a free cup of coffee and a warm chat. The Babbelbus is one of the 30 selected projects for the Matexi Award, which distributes a total of 16,000 euros in prize money among six winners. In addition to a professional jury, two public prizes will be awarded, with 50% of the votes determined online.
The municipality of Lanaken and the Service Center Aan de Statie are running a promotional campaign to gather online votes. Residents can vote until November 16, 2026, via www.matexi-award.be/nl/projecten/babbelbus. A special promotional team of volunteers will actively assist residents in casting their votes, including at the market in Lanaken centrum on November 10.
Although the Babbelbus is currently in its winter break, the monthly Neighborhood Chats (Buurtbabbels) in Veldwezelt, Kesselt, and Smeermaas continue. Josiane Rasking, a driving force behind the initiative in Veldwezelt, emphasizes the importance of connection: "People long for connection and there's a lot of laughter." The municipality provides the room O.C. Berenhof free of charge for these gatherings.
Patrick Maesen, one of the organizers, expressed his pride: "That we are among the final 30 selected is a wonderful recognition for everyone who has been committed to the Babbelbus for years. We are particularly proud of our volunteers and all the visitors who make this project a success."
