Unionhilfswerk
The
Unionhilfswerk: A Companion in Social Responsibility
editThe Unionhilfswerk, founded in 1947 during a time of great need in Berlin, is a provider of free welfare services that offers help for self-help out of Christian and social responsibility.
Key Products and Services
editThe Unionhilfswerk operates a comprehensive network of over 130 facilities, services, and projects. The main offerings include:
- Work and Employment: Measures for the professional rehabilitation and integration of people with disabilities and mental illnesses that have a health-promoting effect[3][5].
- Consultation and Support: Offers such as senior meetings, self-help groups, mobility assistance, grief counseling, and more[5].
- Care and Hospice Work: Training and further education in the field of palliative geriatrics, palliative care, and elderly hospice work[5].
- Accommodation for Refugees: Support for homeless refugees and war returnees, as well as currently for people with refugee experiences[5].
- Youth and Family Assistance: Individual care and support for youth and families, either outpatient or inpatient[5].
- Daycare Centers: Facilities focusing on Montessori education and bilingual upbringing[5].
- Homeless Assistance and Cold Aid: Operation of emergency shelters and volunteer agencies[1].
Main Mission and Values
editThe mission of the Unionhilfswerk is to shape individual quality of life and provide help for self-help. The organization is committed to disadvantaged people to enable their participation in social and community life. The values are based on Christian and social responsibility, aiming to promote empowerment and closeness to the people being supported[1][3][4].
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editThe Unionhilfswerk is committed to sustainable and innovative social projects. These include:
- Unionhilfswerk Foundation: Focuses on palliative geriatrics, hospice work, and the mobility of people with disabilities. The foundation also awards the Richard von Weizsäcker Journalism Prize for contributions on topics such as dying, death, and grief[1][5].
- Voluntary Engagement: About 1,100 volunteers are active in 17 district associations and three interest groups to create a comprehensive event and information offering primarily for older people[1][4].
- Inclusive Workplaces: Creation of attractive and sustainable work, education, and employment opportunities for disabled and disadvantaged people to promote their integration into the labor market[2].
The Unionhilfswerk is a central player in the social landscape of Berlin, making a significant contribution to society through its comprehensive commitment and innovative projects. With over 3,000 employees and about 900 volunteers, the Unionhilfswerk supports nearly 5,500 people in various life situations daily, always with the goal of shaping individual quality of life and providing help for self-help.