Solidarity in Weiz: Festival of the Community and Awarding of the Solidar Prize

Von WOM

On November 20, 2024, the traditional festival of solidarity took place in the garden of the generations in Krottendorf. Such festivals show how important community initiatives are in our Region and how they can raise awareness of social issues. Particularly noteworthy was the awarding of the Solidar Prize of the "Solidar region of Weiz", which recognizes the great commitment and creative ideas of projects that strengthen social cohesion in our society

The Weiz solidarity region was launched 19 years ago and has since developed into a significant player. It brings people together and promotes responsibility and sustainability. In times of global challenges, this model shows how local communities can actively and sustainably work together. A special focus this year was on over 40 submitted projects of different categories.

News from the "Frei Day" category

This year there was an exciting innovation: the introduction of the "Frei Day" category, which is specially intended for projects that deal with social issues. According to chairman Andreas Rath, all submitted proposals were not only inspiring, but also made important contributions to strengthening social interaction.

The festival not only took place for the award winners, but was also an invitation to the entire population of Weiz to participate and celebrate the variety of social initiatives. Musical performances by the "Young Austrian Band" created a happy atmosphere, while the keynote speaker Eduard Hamedl, known for his work at hostage frames and as the founder of the men's emergency call, captivated the present.

volunteer engagement awarded

As in previous years, a special award for life's work was awarded in 2024. This year Karl Simon received the honor for his tireless commitment to the Red Cross. Such honors are important in order to honor the volunteering in our region and to show how valuable the commitment is for others.

The projects that were awarded in the different categories were exceptional and diverse. In the "Frei Day" category, the Weiz elementary school was awarded for its campaign against violence in the football stadium. In a courageous school project, students showed how important it is to work against violence and injustice.

In the category "Private and Families", the "Gschuahof" received a prize from Passail. "Farmfluencer" Melanie Haas has informed her social media and brought transparency to agriculture. Your initiatives are a wonderful example of modern commitment.

The students of the HLW Weiz were awarded for their “Vegucation” project in the schools category. Here the young people regularly discussed climate protection and ethical questions about nutrition, which focuses on conscious topics.

Ultimately, the association "Leit für Leit" was awarded for its over 25 years of work with the Musistadl in Mitterdorf an der Raab. This association has been organizing numerous events since 1998 to support people in need, and has already donated over 160,000 euros.

The festival of solidarity was a successful event that made it clear the diversity of social projects and the commitment of the people in the region. Further information about the awarded projects can be found in a detailed report on www.meinbezirk.at .