Haselbach's citizens' association wins the German Neighborhood Prize 2025!

Haselbach's citizens' association wins the German Neighborhood Prize 2025!

An important prize for neighborhood engagement was recently awarded in Haselbach, a picturesque district of Sonneberg. The Haselbach Citizens' Association has received the German Neighborhood Prize for Thuringia, and the Nebenan.de Foundation awarded the "Ellerlä" project - a term that means something like "All sorts" - with the prize worth a total of 2,000 euros. This impressive project is intended to strengthen coexistence between generations and offers a new meeting place for all citizens.

In a former, empty apartment, an inviting common room was created that is used by young and old alike. Children have the opportunity to gather here regularly: they read in a club, do their homework, play table football and let their imagination run wild with creative crafts. Enthusiastic parents and seniors are also welcome to take part in readings, cook together or attend sewing courses.

A place for all generations

As is usual with multi-generational houses, the “Ellerlä” becomes a place for exchange between the generations. The multi-generational house initiatives offer an open forum for people of different ages and backgrounds. At these meeting places, not only fun and games are on the agenda, but also many workshops and advisory services that promote neighborly cooperation. There are now over 530 such houses in Germany, and they are centrally integrated into the respective municipalities.

The “Ellerlä” is no exception, but a prime example of how local communities can grow together. The club's chairwoman Andrea Knabner emphasizes the excellent work that the members of the citizens' association have done: "It's nice to see how our space has been brought to life." A key supporter of the project is the Sibylle Abel Foundation, which not only financed the community center's kitchen, but also donated a new bench in the Haselbach multi-generation park. This was now ceremoniously inaugurated at the award ceremony, where Doris Motschmann and Steffen Hähnlein from the foundation congratulated.

An example of neighborly commitment

After the success of the “Ellerlä” project and the award with the German Neighborhood Prize, the Haselbach Citizens' Association is a shining example of how entire neighborhoods can be revitalized through voluntary commitment and creative ideas. Over 900 applications were submitted for the neighborhood award this year, from which 16 state winners were selected - a real recognition of the committed work in the region.

The project in Haselbach shows that coexistence between generations is not only a challenge, but also a huge opportunity. It is an opportunity to learn from and support one another, and that is what lies at the core of any multi-generational home. “Ellerlä” will continue to be a place where stories are told and solutions to everyday challenges are found together.

For anyone who would like to find out more about the concept of multi-generational houses, there is comprehensive information on the website of the Association for Multigenerational Houses.