Lisa Kappes-Sassano: 40 years for equal opportunities and solidarity!

Lisa Kappes-Sassano: 40 years for equal opportunities and solidarity!

After 40 years of dedicated work in Caritas, including almost 15 years as head of the Fils-Neckar-Alb region, Lisa Kappes-Sassano (64) is retiring. Her successor is Franz Xaver Baur (55), an experienced cultural and educational scientist. Kappes-Sassano has given decisive impetus for social equality through her diverse offerings and her network. Children and families were particularly close to her heart, which led to the founding of the Esslingen-Nürtingen “Give Opportunities” children’s foundation. This foundation enables disadvantaged children to take part in activities such as sports and music. Loud DRS.de It has supported numerous children and young people from difficult backgrounds and enabled them to participate.

Places of listening in the region

Part of their innovative strength is also reflected in the development of the “places of listening” that have been implemented in various cities in the Fils-Neckar-Alb region. These places offer people who want to be heard a point of contact and were created in collaboration with Caritas Milan. However, at the end of 2020, the coordination of these “places of listening” from the Diocesan Caritas Association office will end Caritas in the living space reported. The first location was opened in 2005 and there are now around 20 such contact points. The initiative was supported by funding from the Episcopal Ordinariate, which is now expiring, resulting in the closure of the coordination.

This review of the development of “places of listening” underlines the lasting impact of Kappes-Sassano's work, which has built a bridge between people, institutions and society. Her vision of participation and support will continue under the new leadership of Franz Xaver Baur, while she herself plans to volunteer in Milan.