Celebrating Two Decades of Community Service: Wersten Foundation Marked by Citizens' Party in Düsseldorf
Community Spirit Thrives at the "With Heart and Hand for Wersten" Anniversary Festival
The picturesque district of Wersten, Düsseldorf, was buzzing with energy as the "With Heart and Hand for Wersten" foundation celebrated its 20th anniversary. The festival, which took place on Lützenkircher Street, was a testament to the foundation's enduring commitment to the community.
Mayor Dr. Stephan Keller graced the occasion as the patron, underscoring the foundation's significance in the local landscape. The festival featured a diverse array of activities, with something for everyone.
Moussa Diallo, a prominent figure, invited everyone to join in the drumming, adding a rhythmic pulse to the festivities. For the children, there were play stations, face painting, cuddling with guinea pigs, and drumming lessons with Diallo. Borussia Düsseldorf contributed to the fun with table tennis equipment, table football, a bouncy castle, and a football cage.
The heart of the festival was the auction, where several pictures, including a Tilly picture of the Toten Hosen, found eager bidders. Fabian Zachel was the lucky buyer of the Tilly picture, while other motives also found homes during the lively bidding process. The auction proceeds went directly to the "With Heart and Hand for Wersten" foundation.
The foundation's activities extend beyond the festival. They include weekly food distribution, school materials, class trips, and aids for seniors. The foundation relies on volunteer engagement and financial support from donors. Their motto, "Many small people in many small places, who take many small steps, can change the face of the world," encapsulates their philosophy perfectly.
The "Werstener Heart" award was given for the fifth time this year, with Ellen Hillebrand being the latest recipient for her special commitment to the neighbourhood. Previous honorees include Dagmar Westphal, Heidewig Dross, the team of the food distribution, and the school crossing helpers of Christopherus Grundschule and Henri Dunant Grundschule.
The current board of the "With Heart and Hand for Wersten" foundation consists of Klaus Lorenz, Pastor Florian Ganslmeier, Heidi Reich, Ali Bouzagaoui, and Trudy Löffelsend. They network volunteers and the board to approach people who might not ask for help themselves, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most.
As the sun set on the festival, the spirit of community was palpable. The "With Heart and Hand for Wersten" foundation continues to be a beacon of hope and support in the Wersten district, inspiring many small steps towards a better world.
In the heart of the festival, a silent auction showcased various artwork, including a Tilly picture of the Toten Hosen, catering to the art enthusiasts amongst the community. The funds raised from this home-and-garden event helped to sustain the foundation's lifestyle initiatives such as weekly food distribution, school materials, and aid for senior citizens.
