CSU criticism: Volunteer fair in Pasing - Have young people been neglected?

CSU criticism: Volunteer fair in Pasing - Have young people been neglected?

Last year, the volunteer fair in Pasing-Obermenzing ensured fresh commitment and numerous encounters. But the evaluation of the 2024 event, published in the Council Information System (RIS), has now brought the CSU into action in the districts. The party criticizes the concept of the trade fair, which is scheduled to take place again in 2026. The aim is to serve a broad audience, but a follow-up survey made it clear: the older generation aged 65 and over was particularly enthusiastic about the trade fair, while young people and middle-aged people were hardly addressed. This sparked a lively discussion in the district committee (BA) about the usefulness of the trade fair.

CSU representative Sven Wackermann has expressed concerns that the event is not profitable and questioned the selection of participating clubs. The criticism did not go unheard: Graciela Cammerer from the SPD and Alexandra Mhysok from the Greens countered the CSU and offered a say in the core group of the volunteer fair. After lively discussion, the majority of the committee decided that the next volunteer fair should take place again in the Pasinger factory on April 18, 2026.

A meeting place for engagement

The volunteer fair, which took place in 2024 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., aimed to bring together various organizations and people interested in volunteer work. With over 20 stands from non-profit organizations, visitors were able to get to know numerous fields of activity. The varied cultural supporting program and free participation made the event an inviting opportunity for everyone who would like to get involved. The positive feedback speaks for itself: visitors reported friendly, competent advice and an excellent introduction to the world of volunteer work, especially for newcomers.

The common cause of volunteering not only has a positive influence on the community, but also on each individual. According to the findings of the portal 10 reasons for volunteering, voluntary work enriches social life and contributes to personal development. This experience is also valued by employers: 41% rate it as equivalent to formal work experience. Commitment also improves psychological well-being, reduces stress and ensures greater satisfaction.

Development and participation opportunities

A variety of opportunities are available for those interested in volunteering. In addition to making personal contact with local organizations such as the German Red Cross or Caritas, you can also use online platforms such as “betterplace.org” and “ehrenamt.de” to find suitable projects. If you would like to find out more about the upcoming volunteer fair, you can find comprehensive information here.

The discussion around the volunteer fair shows that the need for commitment and the willingness to support others is strong - but the focus must be on reaching a wider audience. “The commitment can open up new perspectives and is an opportunity for all age groups,” emphasizes the initiative. Anyone who wants to actively shape society has a valuable opportunity to do so through volunteer work.

With a positive outlook for the next volunteer fair, all those involved and interested can look forward to what lies ahead in 2026. A good hand in selecting the participating clubs would certainly be an advantage in order to appeal to a diverse audience and further promote the voluntary culture.

Further information about volunteering and how it can enrich your own life can be found in the Recommendations for volunteer work.