Display of diverse volunteer experiences featured in latest exhibit
In the heart of Heilbronn, a traveling exhibition titled "They do what... in voluntary work" has made its debut, shedding light on the multifaceted and often unseen contributions made by volunteers in the community. Organised by the Forum for Voluntary Work, this exhibition aims to celebrate and inspire those who selflessly give their time to improve the lives of others.
The Forum for Voluntary Work, an independent, politically neutral, and interdenominational platform, has been a beacon for voluntary work in Heilbronn for the past 25 years. It is a coalition of 77 associations and organisations from various sectors, ranging from politics to nature conservation to sports. The Forum sees itself as a "spokesperson and interest group" for those who often work quietly but significantly in the background.
One such individual is Kurt Scheuermann, a 77-year-old retiree who dedicates his time to the food banks of the Diakonie. He collects leftover food from local businesses using a Sprinter van and distributes it at low cost to those in need. His story is just one of many that the exhibition aims to tell.
The exhibition, which premiered in the large council chamber of Heilbronn Town Hall, consists of 15 mobile display stands. These stands mirror the wide and colorful spectrum of volunteer work, showcasing inspiring examples and stories that highlight the variety of roles, tasks, and contributions volunteers take on.
Melanie Hofmann, 38, is another volunteer making a difference in Heilbronn. She works as a coach in the swimming department of TSG 1845 Heilbronn and serves as chairwoman of the TSG's administrative council. Additionally, she is involved in the handball department of the same club. Despite the double burden of work and family, she appreciates the close-knit community and the opportunity to meet new people of all ages that volunteering affords her.
The Forum for Voluntary Work believes that voluntary work contributes to the social cohesion of the community and to social peace. By raising awareness, recognising and valuing the efforts of volunteers, and encouraging more people to get involved, the exhibition hopes to foster a stronger sense of community and inspire more people to engage in voluntary activities.
The exhibition, "They do what... in voluntary work", is now open in the Nikolaikirche in Heilbronn and can be visited until the end of the summer holidays. As it travels to different locations, the exhibition seeks to reach a broad audience and spark interest in voluntary engagement across various sectors.
- Melanie Hofmann, a volunteer and the chairwoman of TSG 1845 Heilbronn's administrative council, has chosen to lead an active lifestyle by dedicating her time to the swimming and handball departments of the club, contributing to the social cohesion of her community.
- Kurt Scheuermann, a retired individual, has transformed his home-and-garden into a mobile food bank, using a Sprinter van to collect and distribute surplus food to those in need, embodying the selfless spirit of voluntary work.
