District supports voluntary integration work
Volunteering plays a major role in the integration of refugees: it often builds an indispensable bridge between people seeking refuge here and the local community. In order to promote the important work of volunteers in Waldeck-Frankenberg, the district therefore offers various support programmes - whether assistance with language training, workshops or financial support for social integration projects.
Support for voluntary language courses
Language is the key to participating in social life. In addition to official language courses, voluntary language courses are an important component of language learning. The district would like to recognise this voluntary commitment as a voluntary service with a lump sum of 18 euros per lesson.
Assumption of costs for textbooks
The district will also cover the costs incurred for the necessary teaching materials required for the language courses organised on a voluntary basis upon application. Costs for textbooks can be applied for from the district per person taking part in the course.
Workshops for volunteers
The Migration and Integration Centre also offers workshops on current topics relating to integration work. These are free of charge for participants and take place as required. Interested parties are asked to contact the Migration and Integration Centre. If there are enough registrations, appropriate offers will be organised.
Financial resources for integration projects
In addition to language, social integration also plays an important role. This involves, for example, getting to know the Waldeck-Frankenberg region, creating exchange formats or organising joint celebrations. The costs incurred for events and projects of this kind can be reimbursed as part of voluntary services.
"Integration is not a formal process, but a living reality"
"Through the personal commitment and dedication of volunteers, interpersonal relationships are built, cultural exchange is promoted and practical support is provided in everyday life," emphasises Karl-Friedrich Frese, First District Councillor of the district. "This complements the official integration measures in a way that could not be achieved by government agencies alone. Volunteers therefore make a significant contribution to ensuring that integration is not just a formal process, but a living reality."
The support measures are offered by the Migration and Integration Centre in the district's Social Affairs department. "Integration is a multifaceted, cross-cutting task. Volunteering plays a central role in this. Positive integration processes in the district are made possible through good cooperation between full-time and voluntary work," emphasises Latif Hamamiyeh Al-Homssi, the district's integration officer. "For this reason, we would like to support active volunteers in their work. We not only offer a sympathetic ear and solution-orientated action, but also a variety of offers for day-to-day work."
The funding opportunities offered by the district for volunteers working with refugees can be applied for quickly and easily with just a few clicks online or by contacting the specialist centre directly by email or by calling 05631 954 2190.