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75 years of THW: Volunteers shape our future!
The Federal Agency for Technical Relief is celebrating 75 years of volunteer work, honoring helpers and presenting an exhibition about their important contributions.
75 years of THW: Volunteers shape our future!
This year, the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) is celebrating a very special milestone: for 75 years, the organization has been an important pillar of disaster control and voluntary work in Germany. 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 who are there in times of crisis and emergency situations. City report reports that THW President Sabine Lackner emphasizes the immense importance of volunteering for the organization. She emphasizes that the helpers not only find a place in missions, but also in training and promoting young talent.
The proportion of women in the THW is currently 17 percent, with the proportion of young women and girls among new members even reaching 23.5 percent. This shows that the organization is well on its way to promoting gender parity and being open to everyone. The federal voluntary service, which has been offered to all age groups since 2019, further contributes to the fact that volunteering is highly valued and young commitment is encouraged.
75 years of THW: Exhibition in the Red Cross State Museum
Another highlight of 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 Chairwoman of the DRK. The exhibition not only focuses on the history of the THW, but also on the special skills of the helpers in wood and metal construction, bridge building and rock processing. THW BV points out that the cooperation between the THW and the DRK has existed for 75 years and is essential in challenging times.
Ulrike Würth also emphasizes the need for cohesion within the blue light family. In a constantly changing global environment, investments in organizations like THW and DRK are crucial to be prepared for future crises. Bernd Müller-Strauß, who is responsible for the THW's historical collection, also emphasizes the importance of financial resources for disaster control. These are necessary to prepare the clubs for future challenges.
A look into history
The THW has developed significantly since its founding. It is clear that the organization's roots are deeply anchored in German civil and disaster control history. Founded in 1950 as the “Civil Security Service”, the THW received its current name in 1951. With rapid response units such as SEEBA and SEEWA, the THW is also active internationally and provides valuable assistance in natural disasters and other emergencies. In 2022, 86,117 volunteers and 2,100 full-time employees worked for the organization. Wikipedia adds that in the event of a defense, the helpers are even protected by the Fourth Geneva Convention.
Social cohesion and commitment to society – this is what the Federal Agency for Technical Relief stands for. It is not just an organization, but a community that carries the values of help and support like a banner. With 75 years of THW, an era of tireless commitment and collaboration has finally entered a new phase that looks to the future with a breath of fresh air. The celebrations are visible in many cities and show how important volunteer work is in our society.