Education, culture and social affairs – a look back at 650 funded projects
The Darmstadt Civic Foundation is celebrating the 15th anniversary of its restructuring in 2010. Since then, it has funded over 650 projects with more than two million euros, enriching social and cultural life in Darmstadt in a lasting way. Mayor Hanno Benz, Chairman of the Foundation's Board of Trustees, emphasizes: "The restructuring was a crucial step for civic engagement in Darmstadt. Today, we can look back on many successful projects that would not have been possible without this foundation. "
From founding to modern grant-making foundation
Originally founded in 1959 as a charitable association and continued as a foundation from 1975 onwards, the initial focus was on the construction and operation of homes for the elderly, children, and young people . However, economic challenges nearly led to the foundation's dissolution in 2004. Thanks to the commitment of Peter Benz, Werner Kahrhof, Carla Ropertz, and Roland Dotzert, as well as cooperation with the Darmstadt Regional Council, a restructuring achieved in 2010. Since then, the community foundation has operated as an endowment foundation with new bylaws and supports a wide range of social projects.
Education and upbringing as central priorities
A prime example of the Citizens' Foundation's commitment is the children's lecture series , which has been inspiring children with science since 2010. To date, 135 lectures have taken place with over 8,000 participants children's workshop , has been similarly successful . The book box , in use since 2011, motivates third-graders to read. Already, 15,000 children have borrowed books, and 9,000 books have been donated to school libraries.
Social projects for all generations
The civic foundation supports not only young people but also senior citizens. The library courier delivers media to people with limited mobility, and the "Safe in Old Age" provides information about scams such as the grandparent scam or shock calls.
Long-term partnerships and sustainable projects
The civic foundation works closely with local institutions. The Oberfeld estate, the Waldoni Circus, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Mathildenhöhe are among the projects it supports. Crowdfunding projects , such as the restoration of sculptures at Mathildenhöhe,
Innovative funding models: Doubling donations
By initiating projects, the foundation motivates people to donate. One example is the 2023 energy donation campaign , in which the foundation doubled the collected donations.
Commitment and recognition
For its exemplary commitment, the civic foundation has received numerous awards and bears the seal of approval from the Federal Association of German Foundations . The board and trustees are all volunteers and receive broad support from the city's community. Dr. Markus Hoschek , Chairman of the Board, emphasizes: "Without donors and volunteers, our projects would not be possible. Together, we are shaping a future worth living in for Darmstadt."
To mark the anniversary, the website of the Citizens' Foundation redesigned. All current projects and funding opportunities can be found at www.buergerstiftung-darmstadt.de .
Presentation of a book box to a third-grade class at the Morneweg School in Darmstadt in 2019. Photo: Citizens' Foundation
(DARMSTADT – RED/BS)
