Strong together: How each individual can give hope!

Strong together: How each individual can give hope!

In a recent interview, the Viennese Caritas director Klaus Schwertner emphasized how important it is to work together to positively change society. Around 50,000 volunteers across Austria are involved with Caritas and make a valuable contribution through numerous activities, from handing out food to the homeless to supporting children from families affected by poverty. Schwertner emphasizes that every individual can contribute to social transformation through small and large actions. On the platform www.fuereinand.at Several initiatives are registered that provide targeted help and connect people with one another.

Courage and humanity

Given the current crises, including inflation and the spread of misinformation, it is crucial to focus on positive actions. Schwertner emphasizes that it is often maintaining one's own humanity that makes a difference. Although the term “do-gooder” often has negative connotations, he sees this willingness to help as essential for society. “Every soup we distribute, every word spoken and every form of help combats emergencies and brings hope,” explains Schwertner. He encourages people to get involved in the community, even temporarily, in order to achieve positive effects.

Alexander Bodmann, who has been Caritas director of the Archdiocese of Vienna since February 2023, brings a personal touch to Caritas. Bodmann started his career at Caritas in 1997 in the area of ​​homeless assistance and has since worked his way up to the management team in various functions. He is also Vice President of Caritas Austria and is also involved at the international level as Treasurer of Caritas Internationalis. His career and commitment are an inspiring example of the values ​​of Caritas and the impact that individual efforts can have on the entire social assistance system.