100 years of Berlin youth welfare offices: Review and outlook on important changes

An unforgettable festival took place in the heart of Berlin! On Monday, October 14, 2024, the Red Town Hall turned into a colorful setting when the Berlin youth welfare offices celebrated their 100th anniversary. An event of superlatives that impressively underlined the importance of these institutions for the future of young people! Employees, politicians and the youth themselves came together to celebrate this important anniversary.

The event was brought to life with a spraying program of creative performances by children and adolescents. Rap music, artistic acrobatics and a delicious catering through a school company provided an unforgettable experience! Who could stay still? The appearances of the rap group KKG from the DTK Wasser tower in Kreuzberg were a real highlight and put the audience in a celebration mood.

voices of pride and obligation

District City Councilor Detlef Wagner also spoke up: "The youth welfare office Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf has been a reliable partner alongside families, children and adolescents for so many years. Together we shape a future in which all young people get the best possible opportunities." A shaking commitment to the mission of the youth welfare offices! He not only celebrated success, but also made it clear that this anniversary celebration is an obligation for the coming years.

Berlin's Senator for Youth, Education and Family, Katharina Günther-Wünsch, also beamed in her speech and emphasized the importance of the youth welfare offices for the well-being of children and adolescents. She expressly thanked for the tireless work and the commitment of the employees who do important support work every day.

a look into the past and the future

A very special moment was the speech by Prof. Dr. Reinhard Wiesner, the "father" of the Social Code VIII. Wiesner warned: "The specialists must respect the fundamental rights of the parents and at the same time ensure children's rights." A balancing act that is of the highest relevance today!

As part of a captivating film contribution, former and current employees gave insights into their challenges and ideals. Topics such as demographic change, the shortage of skilled workers and digitization were cheerfully discussed. One thing immediately became clear: the Berlin youth welfare offices are more than just authorities! They offer numerous services, including municipal youth leisure facilities and innovative family consultations that are exemplary for all of Germany.

A historical review reminded that the Reich Youth Welfare Act of 1924 formed the basis for the founding of the first municipal youth welfare offices in Berlin. Today, the institution is more concerned with the protection and promotion of our most valuable resource - youth!