Unification Act: "Together We Stand!"
In the heart of Bavaria, Augsburg continues to shine as a beacon of kindness and solidarity. The city's "For Each Other!" action, an initiative that honours exceptional individuals for their selfless contributions to the community, has recognised several remarkable individuals in recent years.
Halyna Nalehach, a mathematics teacher and social pedagogue, was honoured in 2024 for her tireless efforts in aiding refugees find housing in Augsburg and its surrounding district. Her own refugee experience gives her a unique insight and enables her to work in a professional, encouraging, and trust-building manner with both refugees and her colleagues.
In 2022, the honours went to Stefan and Mariya Heinbockel, Moritz Schönberg, and Stefan Zaar, all of whom have been making a significant difference in various community projects in Augsburg. The Heinbockels, who opened their home to six refugees, including a family and a young man with a disability, are truly embodiments of compassion and hospitality.
Stefan Zaar and Moritz Schönberg have been providing invaluable support to the Augsburg Tafel and to mostly elderly women living alone, affectionately referred to as "their ladies." From conversation to small handyman jobs, they have been ensuring these individuals do not feel lonely or neglected. After the end of the lockdown due to professional reasons, Moritz Schönberg took over Stefan Zaar's task, demonstrating the spirit of unity and camaraderie that underpins the "For Each Other!" action.
Karl-Maria Rauch, a resident of Kriegshaber, has been an everyday hero since May 2022, supporting a visually impaired woman in his neighbourhood with shopping and daily tasks. His quiet acts of kindness have made a significant difference in her life.
Benedikt "Benni" Brem, a farmer from "Bremhof," is another shining example of community spirit. Known for offering his property free of charge for various community events and donating Christmas trees to parishes, kindergartens, and schools, Benni's generosity has brought joy to countless individuals. Additionally, he serves as a fire chief at the volunteer fire department in Haunstetten, responding to hundreds of missions each year.
In 2023, three individuals were honoured for their exceptional commitment in caring for their dependent relatives at St. Afra Senior Home. Julia Henze, a nine-year-old student, was recognised for her efforts in sewing and delivering community masks during the pandemic and raising funds for a local association einsmehr e.V. Andreas Ross, another honoree, visits his severely ill wife almost daily and took on nursing tasks to support the overwhelmed team during the pandemic. Manuela Nar, another recipient, is exceptionally dedicated to her mother, who lives at the home and is severely ill, and also supports other residents and regularly assists the team with outings, events, and projects.
The "For Each Other!" action invites all Augsburg residents to participate by nominating volunteers using an online form. The BBE, which collects the nominations and shares the acts of kindness on the city's website, social media channels, and through press releases with local media, ensures that these heroes are celebrated and their stories are shared far and wide. Nominees must agree to the nomination and can request anonymity in the report on their heroic deed.
These stories serve as a reminder that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a profound impact on someone's life. The "For Each Other!" action in Augsburg continues to inspire and bring the community closer together, one act of kindness at a time.
- Halyna Nalehach's tireless efforts in aiding refugees find housing in Augsburg, rooted in her own refugee experience, exemplify the lifestyle of empathy and service in home-and-garden and relationships categories.
- In the realm of education-and-self-development and pets, Moritz Schönberg's shift in tasks during the lockdown, demonstrating unity and camaraderie, is noteworthy.
- The shopping category is portrayed by Karl-Maria Rauch's quiet acts of kindness and support for a visually impaired woman in his neighborhood.
- In sports, Benedikt "Benni" Brem's generosity, as demonstrated by offering his property for community events and donating Christmas trees, showcases team spirit and an extraordinary contribution to the community.
