Volunteer Bernd celebrates his birthday: congratulations and thanks from Burg!

Volunteer Bernd celebrates his birthday: congratulations and thanks from Burg!

Today, June 20, 2025, the sports community in Jerichower Land is not standing still - quite the opposite! PSV Burg e.V. celebrated Bernd's special day, a valuable member of the club who has been tirelessly committed for almost two decades. The board's congratulations were warm and offered an insight into Bernd's remarkable work.

The wishes were clear: health and joy in his hobbies and tasks! The club appreciates Bernd's support in many ways. Whether mowing the lawn, designing the green areas or caring for and maintaining the facilities - his commitment is great. Bernd is also known as a referee and sports fan in Jerichower Land and has a day of sport every day when he rides his bike to the club. He was even active on his birthday and helped to get the facilities in good condition for training and competitions. What sets him apart is that he is always ready to contribute to the welfare of the club, even on special days. The board expresses the hope that Bernd will remain part of the team for a long time.

Voluntary activities – an indispensable part of social life

Bernd's commitment is not only a personal achievement, but also reflects a trend that is becoming increasingly important in Germany. According to a survey, around 31 million people volunteer for various organizations and projects. This includes everything from helping in nature to measures that promote integration. Volunteering offers more than just a meaningful leisure activity; they strengthen social life and contribute to the common good. Just as Bernd invests numerous hours for his club, many other like-minded people also benefit from their voluntary work such as personal development, fun and new friendships.

The value of volunteering goes back a long way and is rooted in the traditions of ancient Greece and early Christianity. Today it is defined as voluntary and unpaid work. For many, it is an opportunity to use their skills and make an important contribution to the community, whether as a trainer, helper in the fire department or police, or in social institutions.

Facts and figures about volunteering in Germany

A look at the most recent surveys shows that voluntary commitment in Germany is continuously increasing. In 2019, around 28.8 million people were active. This represents an engagement rate of approximately 39.7%, up from 30.9% in 1999. The 5th German Volunteer Survey also found that both women and men volunteer almost equally often. A notable development is also the increasing participation in older age groups, while the involvement in East and West Germany is becoming increasingly similar.

Community and cooperation are the key to functioning club life. And regardless of the type or extent of volunteer work, each individual makes a lot of valuable contributions that benefit society beyond the personal benefits. Bernd's example shows how important it is to stand up for the community and make a difference together.

For anyone who is also interested in volunteering: There are numerous opportunities and diverse ways to get involved and make a difference. Special allowances for volunteers, such as the volunteer allowance, also encourage the use of volunteers.

As Bernd demonstrates, each of us can make a valuable contribution to our community. The joy of doing something, the personal contacts and the opportunity to make a difference – these are the true treasures of every volunteer position.

Meetingpoint reports that PSV Burg congratulated Bernd on his special day.
German volunteer work provides information about the definition and benefits of volunteer work.
BMFSFJ has published interesting statistics on the development of voluntary work in Germany.