Volunteers from various areas were the focus of the 15th Volunteer Day, as were the volunteers from the bicycle workshop.

A varied show program and a communal meal rounded off the event organized by Bäder, Sport und Freizeit Salzgitter GmbH.

In 2001, the United Nations proclaimed "International Volunteer Day" for the first time. And in the same year, the city of Salzgitter also invited volunteers to Volunteer Day for the first time. "We did this because we know how important civic engagement and voluntary work are for our society," emphasized Frank Klingebiel.

The Lord Mayor praised the volunteers who do so much for the citizens of this city and therefore also take on responsibility. "They selflessly stand up for others. They ensure that our society functions and is characterized by humanity, warmth and charity," said Klingebiel. The volunteers live solidarity and are important ambassadors for the city of Salzgitter. On behalf of the citizens, the Lord Mayor thanked the volunteers and their partners who support this important work.

This commitment deserves our appreciation and respect, said Frank Klingebiel. Because all volunteers contribute to the fact that our community functions so well.

Volunteers help, accompany, support or actively shape something. Without this commitment, many things would not work. These committed people do something that the city or our city alone could not do. "They are the pillars of our urban society."

"They take responsibility for others. They all do so much good for our city. You are all role models for the people of Salzgitter."

As it is becoming more difficult to find volunteers in some areas, it is all the more important to promote volunteering in discussions and initiatives. "Volunteering is an enrichment. Those who are committed to helping others get a lot in return. Cohesion, enthusiasm and a special togetherness can be experienced," explained Frank Klingebiel.

This was also demonstrated by the eight volunteers from the bicycle workshop at Fredenberg secondary school and the Lebenstedt German Red Cross. Norbert Lebek, Rudolf Münch, Klaus Staas, Rolf-Wilhelm Gröne, Josef Hübner, Günter Strysio, Eckhart Herr and Karl-Heinz Drewes are all pensioners and have been involved in the bicycle workshop for eleven years. Eight pupils take part every Wednesday afternoon, learning everything they need to know about bicycle repair over the course of a six-month period. The pupils receive a certificate with a photo (certificate), which can be used as proof of voluntary work and skills when applying for jobs.

These eight volunteers enjoy what they do and are passionate and enthusiastic about it. They all give a face to volunteering in Salzgitter. "With your actions, you show how lively civic engagement is in our city and how much individuals who feel responsible for their surroundings and become active can achieve," said the Lord Mayor. The pensioners would like to see younger volunteers who are also involved in the bicycle workshop.

During a round of talks with volunteers, the Donors' Parliament presented its work for the people of Salzgitter.