ADVERTISING
Young people actively shape their city – participation is the focus of the meeting
The youth center council of the Blue Box recently met with Mayor Geza Krebs-Wetzl to discuss the needs and ideas of young people in Griesheim. Eight elected representatives from the various youth center groups raised concerns that extend beyond the Blue Box and affect city life.
The meeting focused on how young people can actively shape the development of their city. Topics discussed included the desire for a basketball and soccer cage , more leisure activities , a return mailbox at the city library , better public transport connections for the Blue Box, and greater diversity in downtown retail.
“There are simply too many bakeries and similar shops. We would like more variety,” said Alexandra Becker , spokesperson for the girls' group.
The city takes wishes seriously
Mayor Geza Krebs-Wetzl was impressed by the young people's commitment:
"It's great to see how constructively and specifically the young people are expressing their wishes. We take these suggestions very seriously and will examine to what extent we can implement them."
Hannah Hager also emphasized the importance of participation:
"Participation is the key to making our city more child- and youth-friendly."
Anouk Kaltenbach from the Citizen Participation Coordination Office participated in the discussion. She emphasized:
"Children and young people are the future of our society. We must take their concerns seriously and show them that they can help shape our Griesheim."
Youth Center Council: Direct participation on site
The Youth Center Council is the central participatory body for youth services in Griesheim. The Blue Box offers five different meeting places for various target groups, including a youth club for students from grade 7 and up, and a girls' club. Each meeting place is represented on the council by elected spokespeople. The current eight members meet quarterly with the full-time staff of the youth services department to discuss and implement proposals and ideas.
“We want the Blue Box to be a place where everyone feels comfortable and can contribute their ideas,” said Marlene Witt , spokesperson for the youth center.
The next meeting of the youth center council is already being planned. Until then, the young people will gather further suggestions from their groups and prepare new projects. One thing is clear: the youth in Griesheim are actively involved – and the Blue Box will remain a central location for meeting, participation, and creative expression.
(Griesheim - Red/PSG)
