Austrian specialists discover innovative youth work in Sindelfingen

Austrian specialists discover innovative youth work in Sindelfingen

In an inspiring initiative, around 30 specialists from Lower Austria and Styria met today at the Stadtjugendring Sindelfingen (SJR). As part of a sponsored study visit through the program Erasmus+ This meeting was an opportunity to exchange ideas and learn about proven municipal youth work in Germany. SJR managing director Peter Komhard warmly welcomed the delegation to the North Youth and District Center.

The specialists had the chance to immerse themselves in open child and youth work, find out more about neighborhood work and get involved in supporting volunteer work and participation. The focus was particularly on the synergies between the different fields of work and their local roots, an aspect that was of great importance to the participants.

Insights and highlights

A highlight of the visit was the stay at the Sindolino youth farm. Here the guests were able to explore the educational concept, which offers children and young people the freedom to research, discover and create independently. Some people were particularly enthusiastic about the donkeys on the farm, which caused many a smile.

The Eichholz island meeting place was also on the program. Marion Conzelmann and Timea Schneider introduced the participants to the diverse offerings of neighborhood work. The visitors were impressed by the voluntary initiatives that promote community spirit and neighborhood. The positive local commitment and the hospitality of the Sindelfingen people were a real enrichment for the delegation.

Added value of the exchange

The exchange was not only perceived as an opportunity to collect new ideas for one's own work, but also to make valuable contacts. The diverse offerings and the professional commitment on site particularly stimulated the participants to think. The visit to Sindelfingen was part of a multi-day Erasmus+ study visit, which included further stops in Sinsheim, Esslingen and Mössingen.

The EU program Erasmus+ aims to promote opportunities for European educational cooperation through such initiatives. Four national agencies in Germany are implementing the program in order to make the options available in an understandable and service-oriented manner, which is of enormous value, especially in times when exchange and learning from one another are more important than ever.

Overall, the visit by the Austrian specialists represents an excellent opportunity to learn from each other and strengthen local youth work together. The response has been consistently positive, and the great commitment of everyone involved shows that the work here in Sindelfingen is on the right track.