Inclusion succeeds: Strong community for people with disabilities!

Inclusion succeeds: Strong community for people with disabilities!

The inclusion of people with disabilities is gaining momentum - and not just in Austria. The “Inclusion Team Joglland” association, founded in 2017, has set itself the goal of creating a community for people with disabilities who can prove themselves at various sporting events. Today the team has 22 committed members, including Andreas Breitenbrunner. Apart from his sporting activities, after lunch together he helps in the kitchen of the SOBEGes day workshop, where people with disabilities find a variety of work opportunities, from the creative field to the office. This platform promotes participation and social interaction.

Another outstanding example is David Zottler, who began a part-time apprenticeship as a car mechanic in October last year. His duties include basic tasks such as oil changes and cleaning work. This offer is made possible by the Vocational Assistance Network, which makes it easier for people with disabilities to access the world of work. Job coach Michael Ottenschläger emphasizes the important awareness-raising work in companies: “It is necessary to point out what can be possible.” In Germany, the Work for People with Disabilities association has been pursuing a similar goal since 1992. The association is dedicated to supporting people with disabilities and already has around 200 members. The active members include well-known personalities such as former Prime Minister Heide Simonis, who are committed to the interests of the disadvantaged.

Unbureaucratic help and social integration

The Work for People with Disabilities Association is committed to offering unbureaucratic help that benefits both people with disabilities and their families. Their goal is to create a fairer society in which every person is treated equally. The commitment of the members shows that integration is possible - be it at work or in sport - and that continuous commitment is needed to promote an inclusive society. Their work has already made a big difference, but they continue to strive to create visible change and break down prejudices.

The importance of these initiatives becomes particularly clear when one looks at the active programs and exchanges between the clubs in Austria and Germany, such as vafmmb.de highlighted. It is to be hoped that new paths will continue to be paved so that people with disabilities receive the support they need to be equal members of our society, without discrimination and exclusion.