Volunteer hero: Thorsten Gruner is honored for his commitment!

Volunteer hero: Thorsten Gruner is honored for his commitment!

There was a moving moment in the Central Saxony district council when Thorsten Gruner was awarded the district's medal of merit. This honor recognizes his extraordinary voluntary commitment in the area of ​​self-help for the disabled. Gruner, who became blind during his life, has served in not just one, but at least ten volunteer positions. The district's first alderman, Lothar Beier, described Gruner as committed, humane and helpful. This award took place on December 11, 2023 as part of a district council meeting, in which he was also entered into the district's Golden Book the district of Central Saxony reported.

Commitment to the needs of people with disabilities

His impressive commitment includes, among other things, positions as contact person for the Döbeln regional group at the Saxony Blind and Visually Impaired Association and as a member of the district's advisory board for the disabled. Thorsten Gruner is not only a member of these committees, but also co-initiator of the “Living Together in Central Saxony” action day, which has been taking place since 2016 to raise awareness of the concerns of people with disabilities. At these events, Gruner demonstrates practical skills, such as using a long pole, and wants to break down barriers and prejudices. He is convinced that we should talk to each other more in order to achieve a better understanding of each other, which is also clear in Beier's laudatory speech. Thorsten Gruner has not only managed to improve the quality of life of many people with disabilities, but he has also actively participated in the planning of disability-friendly measures, such as the reconstruction of the port at the Kriebstein dam, as in Sächsische.de reported.

With his tireless efforts, Gruner has shown how important it is to make people with disabilities heard and to integrate their needs into planning. He emphasizes that it is not just about naming challenges, but also offering concrete solutions. This way of working makes him a role model for many and a worthy recipient of the Medal of Merit that he deservedly received.