3FM DJs Barend van Deelen and Wijnand Speelman have always harbored dreams of presenting the iconic NOS Langs de Lijn radio program. This desire came to light during the current 3FM Serious Request event, which runs from December 18 to December 24. During their live broadcasts from the Glazen Huis (Glass House) in Zwolle, the DJs expressed their wish to switch places with the current hosts, Henry Schut and Hugo Borst, as part of their charity campaign for Metakids.
While speaking with Schut and Borst, the DJs learned they could realize their childhood ambition if they could raise 30,000 euros before the event's conclusion. The on-air conversation resulted in excitement and camaraderie among the DJs, as both sides recognized the mutual benefits of this unique swap. Schut and Borst agreed to let Barend and Wijnand present NOS Langs de Lijn for half an hour if the fundraising target was met. Schut remarked, "If the amount exceeds this, we will continue to build it up," introducing the possibility of even more ambitious plans if the support continued.
Barend and Wijnand’s passion for football, which began during their youth, played a role in their dedication to this cause. "I used to listen every Sunday afternoon to the coverage of football programs, and it just feels incredible to even think about stepping behind the microphone on such a beloved show," Barend shared enthusiastically during their broadcast.
Listeners wasted no time digging deep for donations as soon as the announcement was made. Within minutes, thousands of euros were raised, meaning they were inching closer to their goal. The soaring donations signal how the public supports the DJs’ endeavors to merge their childhood aspirations with charitable giving.
The 3FM Serious Request campaign not only touches the hearts of the DJs but also serves the noble cause of Metakids, which supports children with disabilities. This connects the ever-popular tradition with advancing the health and opportunities for those children. The Glazen Huis setup encourages donation-driven engagement, with people from all walks of life coming together to contribute to such meaningful work.
To put this campaign's worth of good news through perspective, it is noteworthy to mention the overall success of Serious Request this year. Early figures showed the initiative had already raised over 6 million euros, the fastest increase ever recorded with four days left until the event's closure.
The palpable enthusiasm surrounding Barend and Wijnand's dream, coupled with the overwhelming public support received, seems to suggest the possibility of this dream becoming reality. Fans of the program and the cause alike are encouraged to continue supporting the Fun drive, ensuring even more initiatives and collaborations can pave the way for breakthroughs.
Through electrifying live shows, updates, and the continuous engagement of listeners, 3FM DJs aim to inspire change. The anticipation swells around the upcoming presentation of NOS Langs de Lijn by the duo should they achieve their target, as both listeners and supporters eagerly await to see the realization of dreams.
So, stay tuned, contribute, and watch as Barend and Wijnand continue their thrilling pursuit to bring their dreams to life through the 3FM Serious Request initiative. Every donation counts and each listener's engagement plays a part not just for the shows but also for the lives being positively impacted through the support of Metakids and similar organizations.