75 years THW: Volunteers shape our future!

75 years THW: Volunteers shape our future!

This year the Technical Relief Agency (THW) is celebrating a very special milestone: the organization has been an important pillar of disaster protection and voluntary commitment in Germany for 75 years. Founded in 1950, the THW is based on the active support of citizens who are now involved in around 669 local associations. The approximately 88,000 volunteers are currently among the driving forces that are on the spot in times of crises and emergency situations. Cityreport reports that THW president Sabine Lackner emphasizes the immense importance of volunteering for the organization. It emphasizes that the helpers: inside not only in missions, but also in training and promoting young talent.

The proportion of women in the THW is currently 17 percent, although the proportion of young women and girls is even 23.5 percent in new entrances. This shows that the organization is well on the way to promoting gender parity and being open to everyone. The federal voluntary service, which has been offered for all age groups since 2019, also contributes to the fact that volunteering is very popular and young commitment is funded.

75 years THW: Exhibition in the Rotkreuz-Landesmuseum

Another highlight in the anniversary year was the opening of a special exhibition in the Red Cross State Museum in Geislingen. This was ceremoniously inaugurated by Peter Hofelich, President of the DRK district association, and Ulrike Würth, deputy federal chairman of the DRK. The exhibition not only addresses the history of the THW, but also the special skills of the helpers: inside in wood and metal construction, bridge construction and rock processing. THW BV indicates that the cooperation between THW and DRK is already has existed for 75 years and is essential in challenging times.

Furthermore, Ulrike Würth emphasizes the need for cohesion within the blue light family. In a constantly changing global environment, investments in organizations such as the THW and the DRK are of crucial importance in order to be prepared for future crises. Bernd Müller-Strauß, who is responsible for the historical collection of the THW, also emphasizes the importance of financial resources for disaster protection. These are necessary to set the clubs for future challenges.

A look at the story

The THW has developed considerably since it was founded. It is clear that the roots of the organization are deeply anchored in German civil and disaster protection history. Locked in 1950 as a “civilian order service”, the THW in 1951 got its current name. With quick operations such as Seeba and Seewa, the THW is also internationally active and provides valuable help in natural disasters and other emergencies. In 2022, 86,117 volunteers and 2,100 full -time employees were deployed for the organization. Wikipedia added that the helpers are even under the protection of the fourth Geneva convention.

social cohesion and commitment to society - that's what the technical relief organization stands for. It is not just an organization, but a community that bears the values of help and support like a banner. With the 75 years of THW, an era of tireless efforts and cooperation has finally entered a new phase that looks into the future with fresh wind. The celebrations are visible in many cities and show how important volunteer work is in our society.