At the Bodelschwingh Foundation Bethel, around 20000 employees are committed to helping those in need of help, support or assistance. Under the title “Markt der Möglichkeiten” (Market of Opportunities), 16 apprentices and dual students of the Hörmann KG Verkaufsgesellschaft now had the chance to observe in four diaconal institutions in Bielefeld. They were invited to spend a day at the “Haus Abendfrieden” (Evening Peace House), the “Tagesgestaltung Adullam” (Adullam Day Care), the Mamre Patmos school and the “Werkstatt Eicheneck” (Eicheneck Workshop), where they were able to gain valuable insights and new experiences. The focus of the project was on living together.
Following the positive feedback from both sides, it is a special concern for Hörmann to further expand the “Market of Opportunities” project in the future.
The Haus Abendfrieden (Evening Peace House)
“Haus Abendfrieden is a residential facility for people with severe dementia who require nursing care. I had the opportunity to spend a day with the nursing staff during the Bethel Day. It was an important experience for me seeing that you can make a big difference by engaging with people, playing with them and listening to their stories. I think everyone went home with a smile on their faces at the end of the day.”
Lara Hoffmann, apprentice as industrial clerk
Die Tagesgestaltung Adullam (Adullam Day Care)
“The Adullam facility offers day-care services for senior citizens with disabilities. We played music and cooked together there and quickly became involved because of the open-mindedness of the people. For me, the Bethel Day left me with a lot of exciting impressions and I would highly recommend it to future junior staff.”
Hannah Robert, dual student in business administration
The Mamre Patmos school
“We got the chance to look into completely different professional fields during the Bethel Day. On that day, we were able to gain a lot of experience. You learn to appreciate the work with people with disabilities and realise how lucky we are to be healthy. The staff put a lot of effort into providing us with as much input as possible in the short time available. In summary, I can say that it was a thoroughly successful day.”
Lukas Rauer, apprentice as industrial clerk
The Werkstatt Eicheneck (Eicheneck Workshop)
“I gathered many valuable impressions at the Eicheneck workshop, some of which you would never realise in everyday life. I was particularly impressed by the open and friendly nature of the caregivers, who are called upon around the clock but always keep calm and stay on top of things.”
Marvin Hornberg, dual student in business administration
