Hood runners in Henstedt-Ulzburg: An important integration project ends

Hood runners in Henstedt-Ulzburg: An important integration project ends

In Henstedt-Ulzburg, a remarkable integration project is coming to an end: The “hood runners,” who have been helping young refugees since 2022 to make it easier for them to get used to their new surroundings, will close their doors on December 31, 2025. This project, which was until recently funded by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees, was supported by the RWE Foundation in 2025. You just have to imagine what that meant for the young people: new friendships, a first connection in their new home and a good dose of support on their way.

The hood runners, colloquially known as “hoodies” – which is derived from “neighborhood” – accompanied the refugee young people in their everyday lives and helped them to get to know their new social and cultural space. These young helpers were not only a bridge between cultures, but also a symbol of the welcoming culture in the city. The integration officer from Henstedt-Ulzburg made it clear that this initiative represents an indispensable part of the community. The successful implementation was based on a well-thought-out concept that prepared the Hoodies for their activities in a 2- to 3-day workshop.

What the hood runners achieve

The Hoodies, many of whom have a migrant background, experience strengthening of intercultural skills in their workshops and establish guidelines that include culturally sensitive regulations. Another important aspect: During their active time they receive supervision from educational specialists. The hood runners meet once or twice a week with the newly arrived young people to help them through the living space - a supportive walk in the truest sense of the word through the challenges of a new beginning.

But despite the success of the project, the threat of a financial gap remains: The integration officer regrets that despite the abundance of funding provided through various programs - including the EU's Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund as well as other initiatives - there is no follow-up funding for the hood runners. The municipalities have to find new ways to be able to maintain such projects.

Funding opportunities at a glance

The German funding landscape for integration projects is diverse. From the Federal Employment Agency, which provides language courses for refugees, to the federal “Social Cohesion” program, which initiates civil society activities – the opportunities are there to strengthen community life. Projects like the hood runners could benefit from these programs, which aim to promote social cohesion and combat exclusion. The target groups here are particularly younger migrants, so there is also a connection to the work of the Hoodies.

Unfortunately, the challenges are not getting any less: There are always new needs that arise from developments in refugee policy. The integration of refugees requires continuous commitment and sufficient financial resources. Both public and private actors are required here to promote constructive cooperation and to support projects like the hood runners in the long term.

In conclusion, it can be said that the end of the Hood Runner project not only represents a loss, but also an opportunity to think about new integration concepts and mobilize resources. So what began in Henstedt-Ulzburg can perhaps live on in a different form - because a strong community knows no borders.

For more information about the hood runners and their commitment, please visit the website NDR, Invia Hamburg and Federal Agency for Civic Education.