Lisbeth Verharen

Lisbeth Verharen is a Professor at HAN University of Applied Sciences, leading the Strengthening Social Quality research group. She focuses on social quality, collaboration between formal and informal networks, and reducing inequalities in vulnerable populations. Her work emphasizes justice, equality, solidarity, and human dignity as core values.

She holds roles as Chair of the Marie Kamphuis Foundation Board, member of the BPSW Scientific Advisory Board, and editor of Vakblad Sociaal Werk. Her research addresses poverty, resilient aging, and social sustainability, particularly in the Arnhem and Nijmegen regions.

Key projects include the Pocket Money Project (recognized in the Effective Social Interventions Database), the Neighborhood Values Map, and initiatives to enhance community participation among youth and older adults. She advocates for participatory approaches and leveraging lived experiences in social work.

Lisbeth collaborates with regional networks like the Social Domain Workshop, fostering partnerships between residents, professionals, and organizations to strengthen social infrastructure and inclusive practices.