SkF Schweinfurt e.V. sets an example

The "Laienhelferinnen Werneck" (lay helpers) of the SkF Schweinfurt receive first prize in the "Zeichen setzen" (Setting an example) sponsorship award 2024 – Bringing joy to everyday life

The Catholic Women's Social Service (SkF) in Schweinfurt has won first prize in the 2024 "Zeichen setzen" (Setting an Example) sponsorship award. This €3,000 prize was awarded by
donated by Fürstlich Castell’sche Bank and goes to the "Laienhelferinnen Werneck" (lay helpers) of SkF Schweinfurt. The dedicated women impressed the jury with their tireless
Commitment to people with mental illness at Haus Erthal and Albert Schweitzer House in Werneck. A total of 20 initiatives were recognised for their outstanding projects in the field of
civic engagement.

Every fortnight, the group of lay helpers from SkF Schweinfurt visits residents of these homes, most of whom no longer have any family members or
often do not receive visitors due to their mental illness. Through their regular visits, the volunteers create an atmosphere of joy and
A sense of security that does those affected a world of good. "It's the little things that make a big difference," explains Christine Wagenhäuser, a long-standing volunteer. "A smile, a conversation, singing a song together – all of this not only brings joy to the residents, but also enriches us deeply.""We hope that our commitment will motivate others to also volunteer and make the lives of others a little brighter," adds Inge Weigand, also one of the award-winning volunteers and coordinator of this group. "After all, what could be better than knowing that you can do good and make a big difference with your heart and time?"

The lay helpers' group celebrated its 45th anniversary in 2023 and can look back on a long, stable and trusting relationship with the residents and the
Nursing staff. The visits bring variety and a little joy into the everyday lives of people with mental illness, which is also greatly appreciated by the nursing staff.
The award ceremony, which took place in the Mainfrankensäle in Veitshöchheim, was a moving moment for the entire SkF team. In addition to the opportunity to meet
exchange ideas with other inspiring initiatives and individuals who are also passionately committed to the common good, the volunteers were enthusiastic and impressed by the
Meeting with the patron of the evening, VdK President Verena Bentele.

The SkF and the lay helpers would like to thank the Main-Post media group, the Lernwerk Volkersberg and, of course, the Fürstlich Castell’sche Bank, as well as all the organisers of the
Campaign "Setting an example" for this significant recognition of civic engagement.