Fachhochschule Dortmund also participated in the citywide Social Day “Tatendrang.” A total of 24 employees volunteered on July 3, 2026, in three different projects: at “Grenzenlose Wärme – Refugee Relief Work e.V.,” at the day center for people with mental illness run by Diakonie Dortmund and Lünen, and at the Dortmund Railway Station Mission.
The focus was on hands-on work: At Grenzenlose Wärme, a team sorted donated supplies for refugees; at the Diakonie day center, everyone worked together to redesign the garden; and at the Dortmund Railway Station Mission, the university employees helped with a waffle sale and a book bazaar.
Access to Volunteer Opportunities
“As Fachhochschule Dortmund, we are committed to the region and the common good. By participating in ‘Dortmunder Tatendrang,’ we want to provide our employees with easy access to volunteer opportunities and be a visible part of the city’s community,” said Svenja Stepper, Chancellor of Fachhochschule Dortmund.
The initiative was also well-received by participating university employees: Several of them, including Sonja Mika, Christine Ruhfus-Kirsch, and Janine Bruder, reported that on that day they got to know colleagues from other departments with whom they otherwise rarely come into contact. For Bärbel Jungermann, participating was also personally important: supporting refugee aid is particularly close to her heart.
The participating organizations were delighted with the support. Karina Schnettberg from Diakonie was impressed by how much work was accomplished on the garden renovation in such a short time. And Kathi Bach from Grenzenlose Wärme emphasized: “There’s always plenty to do here.”
In the evening, participants from the companies, organizations, and project teams gathered for a joint closing event. The focus was on sharing experiences from the day, recognizing everyone’s commitment, and fostering networking among the participants.