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Beelitz remembers: Refugee aid in turbulent times in 2015
In 2015, volunteers helped refugees in Potsdam-Mittelmark, while challenges and personal contacts shaped the integration.
Beelitz remembers: Refugee aid in turbulent times in 2015
In 2015, Germany opened its doors to hundreds of thousands of refugees looking for safety and a new home. At that time, Angela Merkel famously said: “We can do it.” In the small village of Schäpe, which has just 150 inhabitants, 80 refugees were accommodated. Michael Holstein, one of the first volunteers, was directly involved in this moving time and still remembers the challenges, but also the many emotional moments with the refugees, in which he often cried with them. As maz-online.de reports, formed A group of 25 committed people quickly came together under the motto “Beelitz helps” to support the newcomers.
The helpers organized transport services and provided interpreters to make settling in easier. For months, Holstein worked around the clock to offer individual support to the Syrian refugees who wanted to stay in the Potsdam-Mittelmark region. Sponsorships were set up, which represented an important connection for many. “Personal interaction was crucial for integration,” said Holstein, who, however, withdrew from volunteer work to take family pressures into account. While undergoing therapy, he learned to manage his energy better and, if necessary, he would coordinate again at any time, but would no longer be as active.
Friendships instead of barriers
The intercultural encounters were not always positive. There were also challenges and disappointments, such as stalking in some cases, that posed challenges for the helpers. But despite these difficulties, many valuable friendships were formed. The “Beelitz Helps” association experienced a new beginning when, together with the city of Beelitz and local entrepreneurs, it once again offered support to fleeing Ukrainians in 2022. In the interview, Holstein reports that for many people, personal contact was the decisive foundation for getting a good start in their new life.
Looking back on the last few years, Holstein emphasizes the importance of community: “We had a good knack for integration and the main key was friendships.” The initiative, which still exists, is an example of how people can come together to help others as long as circumstances allow.
During this time, the solidarity between the helpers and the refugees was crucial in breaking down the various barriers. “The commitment was not only important for the refugees, but also for us helpers,” said Holstein. “It changed the way we see the world.” Psychological support and counseling services are essential, and many who have volunteered to help refugees have found that help also brings meaning and fulfillment.
Many volunteers are still available to make a useful contribution and support integration. It will be exciting to see how these initiatives develop and what stories will emerge from them.