Sozialverband VdK - Nordrhein-Westfalen e.V.
The
Sozialverband VdK Nordrhein-Westfalen e.V.
editAbout Us
editThe Sozialverband VdK Nordrhein-Westfalen e.V. has been an indispensable part of the social landscape in Germany for over 75 years. Founded in October 1948, after World War II, the VdK has developed into the largest social association in North Rhine-Westphalia, with over 420,000 members and a nationwide membership of 2.2 million.
Mission and Values
editThe VdK stands for a humane society that promotes good work and social justice. Our goal is to ensure that the weak in our society receive protection and that there is solidarity between young and old, rich and poor, healthy and sick. Our roots in the post-war period have given us the historical mandate to combat racism, anti-Semitism, and nationalism, which is enshrined in our statutes.
Services and Offers
editThe VdK offers its members comprehensive social legal advice and social political representation. Our services include advice on all social legal issues, from disability rights to pension law, as well as legal representation before social courts and in objection proceedings. In addition, our 43 district associations and over 700 local associations organize informational events on current topics in social policy and social law.
Voluntary Engagement
editA central aspect of our work is voluntary engagement. Over 8,600 volunteers are active in more than 670 local associations, supporting members, working in boards and working groups, engaging in educational and public relations work, and even serving as volunteer social judges. The VdK offers its volunteers an extensive seminar and event program to support their work.
Sustainability and Social Justice
editThe VdK is intensively committed to social justice and sustainability. Our activities focus on issues such as socially just climate policy, the expansion of community infrastructures, and the reduction of social inequalities. At the annual Social Forum, we discuss with experts and politicians how climate policy can be designed fairly and socially just. In addition, we advocate for affordable and socially acceptable solutions in public transport, as exemplified by the requested social ticket.
Community and Membership
editAs a member of the VdK, you benefit from a variety of services, including the use of the association's own recreation hotel "Zum Hallenberg" in the Hochsauerland and the receipt of the association's publication "VdK-Zeitung," which appears ten times a year. Our members are organized in 43 district associations and numerous local associations, allowing for direct and local outreach and support.
The Sozialverband VdK NRW e.V. is a living proof that joint engagement and solidarity can play a significant role in shaping a fairer and more humane society.