Kiez runner in Charlottenburg-Nord: strengthen security and integration on site

A new sign of security and community was set in the pulsating Charlottenburg-Nord! Since the 1. August 2024 are the neighborhood runners from Think Si³ in the service of the Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf integration office and ensure a breath of fresh air in public space. On 9. October , District Mayor Kirstin Bauch, the representative for participation and integration Cem Gömüsay, and project coordinator Suzanna Lauterbach presented the innovative project. And the first interim conclusion? Overwhelmingly positive!

The neighborhood runners are not law enforcement officers, but the friendly faces who address problems in the neighborhood! Your main goal? Defuse conflicts in public space by getting into conversation directly. Whether grilling in the park or when drinking in a wet drinking area - the neighborhood runners provide information about applicable regulations and also offer support. If necessary, refer to the responsible bodies and social institutions.

direct dialogue for integration

Particular attention is paid to the refugee people in the neighborhood, especially from Ukraine. These are often based in the Tegel arrival center and urgently need support. The neighborhood runners who speak fluent Russian are thus building a trusting basis for the dialogue. It is an initiative that closes a massive gap in social work - especially when addressing men with addiction problems.

The reason for the use of the neighborhood runners? Increasing complaints from residents: inside about alcohol abuse, overnight stays outdoors and improper waste disposal! The neighborhood runners are not only problem solvers, they are also bridge builders who work closely with local actors such as the regulatory office and social institutions such as Albatros gGmbH.

a strong team for the Kiez

The team of six is ​​active from Monday to Saturday between 1 and 9.30 p.m. and pulls its route through hotspots such as Mierendorffplatz, Jungfernheide and Heckerdamm. They always keep their eyes open and immediately report garbage problems or other violations to those responsible.

The reactions of the residents: inside are consistently positive - the people in the neighborhood appreciate the relaxed atmosphere that the neighborhood runners create. The close cooperation with social psychological actors such as Albatros has already created sustainable cooperation.

The project is financed by special reinforcement agents, and comprehensive evaluation with the offices involved is already planned for the end of the year. District Mayor Kirstin Bauch is enthusiastic about the progress: "The neighborhood runners are set by a strong sign of more security and cohesion in our district!"

The neighborhood runner is not just a project, but an essential building block for integration and social peace - a hope that should have existed beyond the December 2024 !

On behalf of
Räsch