65 years of Lebenshilfe Erlangen: A show of strength for self-determination and participation!

65 years of Lebenshilfe Erlangen: A show of strength for self-determination and participation!

Lebenshilfe Erlangen is celebrating an important anniversary this year: the organization has been supporting people with intellectual disabilities and their families for exactly 65 years. Lebenshilfe was founded at the time by parents who had to find themselves without help during a difficult time. 15 years after the Second World War, it was primarily the challenges that prevented their children from integrating into society and denied them help that led to the founding. The first steps of life support took place in a barrack provided by the city, in which the foundations for training workshops and kindergarten offerings were laid, like this Wiesentbote reported.

A social rethink was necessary to counteract the prevailing, painful memories of euthanasia killings during the Nazi era. The pioneering work of Lebenshilfe not only brought visibility, but also the opportunity for self-advocacy. Erika Roch, one of the founding members, described the isolation of the affected families at the time. She made it clear that sharing within the community was crucial to breaking down prejudices and creating acceptance.

A comprehensive help system

Lebenshilfe now offers a wide range of support for people with disabilities of all ages. This also includes support in finding a suitable place to live, like on the Lebenshilfe website is executed. Many people with disabilities and their families face the challenge of finding suitable housing. Housing is not only a basic need, but also a place where individual design and self-determined living are possible.

The desire for security and good care is noticeable among many of those affected. Many adults want to move out of home, but often cannot find a way to do this on their own. Communal living or more independence are central concerns. Lebenshilfe is committed to creating suitable housing options and taking individual wishes into account.

A look into the future

The 45th anniversary of the Regnitz workshops will also be celebrated on July 5th, an occasion that will be duly recognized with an open day. The event includes tours, a market of opportunities and a celebration with food and music. Frank Morell, the chairman of Lebenshilfe, emphasizes the importance of self-representation and the participation of parents and volunteers in shaping the offerings. The commitment of these groups is crucial for the further development of Lebenshilfe.

But despite the positive development, Lebenshilfe is currently facing political and financial challenges. Concern about maintaining standards and the necessary support for people with disabilities remains a key issue that continues to concern the organization. The history of Lebenshilfe is characterized by constant change that makes participation in society the top priority. The Federal Association for Life Support reports that participation in society began more than 65 years ago and continues today through initiatives such as the #ParticipationInstead of Exclusion campaign in the 2010s.

Lebenshilfe is committed to a future in which self-determination and participation are not empty promises, but rather a lived reality for people with disabilities and their families. It is to be hoped that progress will continue and society will create more space for diversity and inclusion.