The focus: the focus: Federal Cross of Merit for seven committed Ruppiner!

The focus: the focus: Federal Cross of Merit for seven committed Ruppiner!

Neuruppin, Deutschland - On July 3, 2025, the air in Neuruppin was filled with a special ambition. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier recently announced his stay in the city to honor seven remarkable personalities with the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. The ceremonial ceremony took place in the cultural church and focused on volunteering. The honored have been making valuable contributions in the areas of child and youth promotion, senior care, integration work and the preservation of the cultural heritage.

The list of excellent is as diverse as its commitments. These include Jürgen Sternbeck, who worked as a mayor of Fehrbellin for 21 years, and Sigrid Schumacher, who has represented the interests of her community since 2014 as mayor in Zernitz-Lohm. The couple Dr. Almut and Dr. Karl-Heinz Götz honored, who actively get involved in the Museum and Tempelgartenverein of Neuruppin and work for the creation of the "Eva-Strittmatter-Platz". Thomas Heidemann, who impressively increased the number of members of the Neuruppin rowing club during the Corona pandemic, and Gabriele Lettow, who is known for their cultural initiatives, in particular the Aequinox Music Days, complete the team of the excellent volunteers. Michael Landeck, teacher at the Evangelical School, was recognized for the “Dein Park” project, which upgrades the city park and the city center.

volunteering in focus

The visit of the Federal President in Neuruppin was not only a gesture of recognition, but also part of his “local time Germany” trip, which aims to promote direct exchange with the citizens. "It is important to appreciate people behind the voluntary commitments," said Steinmeier during the award. "These people are strong for their communities and affect all sorts to improve living together."

The entire event made it possible to throw the light on volunteering, an element that often works in the background, but is indispensable for the cohesion and quality of life in the cities. The honored are not only examples of excellent commitment, but also an inspiration for many who want to become active in the community. As the initiative of the Federal President's Office shows, it is of great importance to appreciate these people who are tirelessly fighting for good cooperation.

cultural and social responsibility

The Order of Merit is not only an award, but also a kind of obligation to continue commitment and inspire others. Preserving the cultural heritage and taking on social responsibility are challenges that will continue to exist in the future. Personalities such as Gisela Blume or Günter de Bruyn - who were and are and are active in different areas - are often the drive behind these efforts and thus not only promote the development of communities, but also the personal development of many people.

While the Federal President replaced with those present, it turned out again: volunteer commitment is the putty that holds our society together, and the honored are the parade examples for what is possible in the community. The strengthening view of the people behind the initiatives invites you to become active yourself. Whether in sports, culture or in political design - every small act counts. The idea of ​​the community goes far beyond personal success and creates a space for mutual support and cooperation.