Financial turbulence: The wild bitch is fighting for her future!

Financial turbulence: The wild bitch is fighting for her future!

In Naumburg, the “Wilde Zicke”, the smallest tram company in Germany, is causing a sensation. The charming tram has been running a scenic 2.8 kilometer route through the city since 1892, but recently the joy of stable passenger numbers has been threatened by financial bottlenecks. How MDR reported that the company is currently short of one and a half positions, which makes it more difficult to provide the usual range of services. The managing director has announced that he will examine the situation more closely, but the challenges are manifold.

A central problem is the tariff payments for tram drivers. These are becoming more and more expensive and are putting additional strain on the coffers. The financial relief agreement presented is apparently not enough to solve the entire problem. The Burgenland district and the tram operator are in a dispute over outstanding payments, which is further escalating the situation. Particularly bitter: Even special nighttime trips that were planned for the cherry festival had to be canceled.

The importance of volunteer work

Especially in difficult times it becomes clear how important volunteer work is. In Germany, around 29 million people are active in various areas, such as education and refugee aid. But how DRK reports, many volunteers feel let down by politics, especially in North Rhine-Westphalia. Only 19 percent of those surveyed in a current Forsa study feel valued for their work, which reduces motivation.

Another obstacle for committed citizens are the bureaucratic hurdles, which often have a deterrent effect. Professor Dr. Andrea Walter makes it clear that better recognition by politicians and easier framework conditions are crucial for the further promotion of voluntary work. However, positive developments have been noted, such as permanent contacts in the tax offices for non-profit organizations in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Funding opportunities for volunteer work

In order to further strengthen volunteer work and support individual initiatives, the German Foundation for Commitment and Volunteering various funding programs. This includes the “FuturE” qualification program, which is intended to support committed people in management positions. There is also the “100xDigital” program, which helps non-profit organizations with digital change, as well as micro-funding programs for educational activities on global topics.

The “Wilde Zicke” in Naumburg is not only a means of transport, but also a piece of history and part of social life. Despite all the difficulties, it remains to be hoped that support for volunteer work and the necessary appreciation from politicians and society will increase in order to maintain and promote such projects. Ultimately, it is the commitment and passion of volunteers that strengthen social cohesion.