Our commitment takes many forms: We organize festivals, connect people, and advocate politically on behalf of alumni. Our goal is a good life for everyone, genuine community—and boundless friendships and ideas that extend far beyond the volunteer service. And time and again, we ask ourselves: How can we make the time after the volunteer service even better for everyone?
Political Representation of Volunteers
Since 2012, through the Political Volunteer Representation of International Volunteer Services (PFIF), we have represented current and former weltwärts volunteers and brought our perspectives to the program’s governing bodies. We are firmly represented on the Program Steering Committee (PSA) and in various working groups to actively participate in decision-making—for example, on topics such as the South-North component, inclusion, or sustainability.
How can we shape a livable future for everyone?
Every one to two years, the undjetzt?! conference (“andnow?!” conference) takes place, addressing topics such as socio-ecological transformation and a good life for all, while experimenting with new forms of coexistence. The conference is a week filled with inspiration, exchange, and networking, during which we question assumptions, think critically, brainstorm ideas—and put them into action.
Community for former weltwärts Volunteers
We promote networking among returnees from international volunteer programs and thereby support their volunteer work after the voluntary service. In cooperation with Engagement Global, we are building a vibrant community of former weltwärts volunteers that empowers and engages them. There’s a lot happening right now, so stay tuned via our Instagram channel (@weltwaerts.community) and be part of this inspiring community! In our recap, you can see everything we’ve created and achieved together so far.
Our social network – before, during, and after your volunteer service
We created the Worldwide Network to connect volunteers digitally. Through the platform, you can find like-minded people worldwide, make connections, and use the Member Map to discover alumni near you and couch surfing opportunities. In various thematic spaces, you can exchange ideas with others on topics such as starting a career, studying, volunteering, or personal development.
A Fund for South-North Alumni
Former South-North volunteers often have fewer opportunities to receive financial support for their activism, professional development, and networking after their volunteer service. That is why we at grenzenlos are working on a Community Fund. The goal is to provide former South-North volunteers living outside Germany with unbureaucratic financial support for their projects, professional development, and regional community events.
Political Education
Through discussions, informational events, and thematic workshops, we aim to raise awareness of global interconnections, power structures, and social justice. We strive to regularly organize relevant events on topics of global and transformative learning—and not just for former volunteers.
Looking back
Over the past few years, we’ve kicked off and carried out many different projects. One of them is the Wandelfibel – a guide to sustainable living, which is basically a revamped version of the old Rückkehrer*innen-Fibel. It offers ideas and inspiration for more sustainable living and driving social change.
In masala Magazin, we worked together with former volunteers in India to paint a diverse picture of the country and build bridges between Germany and India.
On top of that, we created MeinFreiwilligendienst.de, an online review platform where former volunteers can rate their sending organizations and placements—helping future volunteers get a better sense of what to expect.
Sounds interesting? We’d love to have you on board! Get involved in one of our areas of work and become part of grenzenlos. And by the way—we work grenzenlos, so you can join us from wherever you are!