Since 2005, the project – which has been operating at the Don Bosco Centre in Marzahn-Hellersdorf and, since 2020, also in Berlin at the centre in Treptow-Köpenick – has been active in the fields of social welfare, career guidance and child welfare. It has now further expanded its activities.
New premises have been opened in the Berlin district of Adlershof, where a service is offered to support entry into the labour market in accordance with current legislation on assistance for jobseekers (SGB II). The service is aimed at young people who need support on the way to formation or the world of work.
Great importance for regional youth social work
The opening of the new premises took place in a particularly festive atmosphere, and those present demonstrated first-hand how the support works in practice. The buffet was also significant, as it was organised by young people from the Marzahn formation course and the sister employment support project in Marzahn-Hellersdorf.
During the opening ceremony, the Vice-Provincial of GER, Fr Christian Vahlhaus, blessed the new premises, whilst Sr Margareta Kühn and the Rector of the Manege centre in Berlin, Fr Simon Härting, addressed the guests with words of welcome. The exchange between the network partners present and the visit by André Grammelsdorff, the Treptow-Köpenick District Councillor for Youth, highlighted the importance of the new centre for regional youth social work.
Mr Grammelsdorff stated on the occasion: “With the opening of these new premises, Adlershof is gaining an important venue for young people who, for various reasons, have lost their way and need support on their journey towards an independent life. Here, it is not just spaces that are being made available, but real prospects are being created! This commitment deserves great respect and demonstrates just how important social cohesion and practical responsibility are for our city and our district.”
Providing individual support for young people entering the world of work
In its work, Manege gGmbH employs stabilisation and activation strategies aimed at bringing young people closer to the formation and labour markets. In this context, Manege gGmbH staff work individually with each participant and use tried-and-tested methodological and educational approaches.
The open and respectful atmosphere, combined with easily accessible activities, serves as the foundation for building trusting relationships with young people. For example, cooking and eating together in a friendly setting strengthens the sense of community and also offers the opportunity to learn more about healthy eating. Outreach work, carried out at various times – including in the young people’s own homes – ensures continuous and sensitive support.
Rather than rigid internal rules, daily life is characterised by the underlying attitude reflected in the motto: ‘It’s great to have you here!’ This culture, based on valuing individuals, promotes respect, cleanliness and considerate, respectful relationships between people. The modern, bright and spacious premises, some of which are located within a dedicated workshop complex, also provide optimal conditions for the work carried out there.
Finally, the open-plan areas dedicated to socialising and counselling enable family members or friends to be actively involved in the integration process. Indeed, residents are always regarded as key participants and supported by a motivated team as genuine, equal partners.
With the opening of these new spaces, Manege gGmbH remains true to its Salesian and Christian mission: every young person is unique and deserves support that respects their dignity and individuality.
Source: GER Province
