Wheeling and Hospitability Honored: A Heartfelt Tribute
Anniversary appreciation: Signed thank-you letters, checks, and a golden commemorative wheel
The Ueckermünde Disabled Association threw a celebration to lavish gold-plated accolades on Frank Wasse and Adelheid Adler - exceptional leaders in the transportation and hospitality sectors, respectively. A golden steering wheel and a golden coffee pot were the star attractions, presented to these deserving individuals during the association's 35th anniversary festivities.
Top-Notch Taxi Drivers and Exceptional Hostess
Wasse and his team, the best taxi drivers around, radiate empathy when caring for their disabled passengers. Meanwhile, Adelheid Adler wows the association members with her unparalleled hospitality. The association recognized a bunch of outstanding members during this festive event at the Strandhalle, including Barbel Novak, Carola Tiews, Gertrud Otto, Jürgen Otto, Sabine Haack, and Silvio Sommer.
Pioneering a Path After the Fall
Marlen Deutsch, the association's current chair, reveled in the 35-year history of the group. They were the very first registered association in Ueckermünde following the demise of the Berlin Wall. The brave initiative came from six wheelchair users who realized the importance of advocating for their own rights. Their plea in the local newspaper soon attracted 60 like-minded individuals who didn't feel alone anymore.
From Trowels to Triumphs
Reminiscing about the association's humble beginnings, Deutsch shared stories of their first chairperson, Mr. Lahs, who, with buckets, shovels, and a trowel, made some local businesses more accessible for wheelchair users. Nowadays, such efforts would be unheard of. After Lahs, Klaus-Peter Meike, Roswitha Rothamel, and Barbara Mortensen took the reins, with Mortensen's passing leaving a lasting impact on the association.
Overcoming Pandemic Challenges
The COVID-19 pandemic took a toll on the association's activities, but they bounced back with a newly elected board and Marlen Deutsch at its helm in 2021. Currently, the association boasts 34 dedicated members.
Among their achievements are trips to Prenzlau, accessible mooring points at Zerum, and monthly bowling sessions for wheelchair users in Eggesin. They've also contributed to initiatives like the Integration Sports Festival and "Living with Disability" project at Torgelow Elementary School.
The association played a vital role in restoring the "Lost" memorial on the Ameos grounds, where victims of Nazi crimes are remembered each year.
Planning Accessibility with a Personal Touch
The association's influence on construction projects is profound, even extending to home visits by Ueckermünde's building department for Marlen Deutsch's input regarding accessibility barriers. Many conversations with planners and members of the Senior Council ensued, working together to improve accessibility in Ueckermünde.
Wishing for a More Inclusive World
Marlen Deutsch yearns for a world where everyone experiences inclusivity and fosters mutual understanding. "We need more encounters, understanding, and many people with and without disabilities standing up for each other," she declared. The association received an outpouring of well-wishes and presents from various sources, including mayors and city officials, the Sparkasse, and the Volkssolidarität.
Two Generous Grants to Boost the Association
Patrick Dahlemann, head of the State Chancellery, brought two sizeable grants from the Vorpommern fund - one for new computer technology and another for a group trip to Baumkronenpfad Ivenack. He also presented a coin from Minister President Manuela Schwesig as a token of appreciation.
Adelheid Adler's exceptional hospitality in the home-and-garden sector, especially during the 35th anniversary festivities, was reminiscent of the warm welcome extended to guests, emulating the association's ethos of inclusivity. The Ueckermünde Disabled Association, being pioneers in sustainable living, has fostered numerous initiatives promoting accessible environments, such as collaborating with builders to ensure homes are friendly for individuals with different abilities.
