When people think of Germany, they often think of efficiency, beer, or unlimited-speed highways. But what's often forgotten is just how present solidarity is here, especially through volunteering. And honestly, living in Heilbronn and studying at Hochschule Heilbronn (HHN), I discovered a very active and inspiring network of associations.
In Germany, volunteering is something very common. Almost 40% of Germans are involved in some kind of volunteer activity, whether it's helping the elderly, the homeless, refugees, or children in need. What's impressive is that many young people take part as well. In fact, in Germany, people learn early on that getting involved in society is important.
Major volunteer organizations
There are several well-known national organizations here, such as:
- Caritas (linked to the Catholic Church)
- Tafel (similar to Restos du Cœur, providing food to those in need)
- Johanniter, which focuses on healthcare and first aid services.
What I found great is that there's a genuine effort to organize things in a way that makes it easy for citizens to take part.
University programs
The "Studium meets Ehrenamt" program, for example, allows you to do volunteer work during your studies and earn an ECTS credit for it. Basically:
- You choose a mission involving children or young people, approved by the university.
- You complete a short training beforehand.
- And you do at least 25 hours of volunteer work during the year.
There's also a mentoring program between local and international students. It's a way to support each other and make sure Erasmus students (like me) don't feel lost when they arrive. It's a more discreet form of volunteering, but just as valuable. My buddy, Felix, was able to help me with a variety of things.
In France too, volunteering is very well developed. You immediately think of organizations like Restos du Cœur, Secours Populaire, Croix-Rouge, and others that help young people get involved in mentoring children in need.
Comparing France and Germany
| In Germany | In France |
|---|---|
| Volunteering is often organized by large, highly professional organizations | There are many smaller and more activist-oriented associations |
| Student involvement is officially recognized (ECTS credits, scholarships, certificates) | It is less systematic, but possible through Service Civique or certain schools |
| The culture is very structured and well-regulated | Associations are sometimes more informal but also more politically engaged |
| There is strong cooperation between associations, cities, and universities | The connection between universities and associations is weaker |
Volunteering in Heilbronn, whether through the city or the Hochschule, is truly an opportunity for students. It's easy to access, helpful to others, and personally enriching.
Sources
- BMFSFJ – Freiwilliges Engagement in Deutschland: Zentrale Ergebnisse du 5ᵉ Freiwilligensurvey (2019)
- Stadt- und Kreisjugendring Heilbronn – "Studium meets Ehrenamt"
- Diakonisches Werk Heilbronn – Site des Tafeln et programmes seniors
- Stadt Heilbronn – Rubrique Citizen involvement / Forum Ehrenamt
- INSEE – "1,3 million d'associations en 2018"
- INJEP – Baromètre DJEPVA Jeunesse 2023
- AFEV – Page "S'engager" (engagement étudiant et mentorat)