Volunteers are the backbone of Be an Angel. Whether helping in person or behind the scenes, your commitment brings hope to people in crisis.
Voluntary engagement is a central part of our work. It creates space for genuine interpersonal encounters – especially between refugees and non-refugees. Through personal contact, trust, understanding, and relationships emerge that go beyond simple aid services.
At the same time, volunteers expand our capacities where professional structures reach their limits. The role of volunteers in our organization is therefore intentionally designed to be personal and supportive: they take on sponsorships or form buddy systems, in which each refugee is matched with a committed volunteer. The focus is not only on concrete help – such as attending appointments with authorities, finding housing, or dealing with everyday issues – but also on being a reliable point of contact. The goal is a partnership-based collaboration in which trust and friendship can grow.
Our approach to volunteer work is shaped by flexibility, equality, and mutual respect. Volunteers should be able to contribute their own ideas, interests, and availability. We do not see voluntary work as a rigid task, but as a shared process – oriented toward the needs of both the volunteers and those they support.
Collaboration between full-time staff and volunteers is closely coordinated. There is always a designated contact person – typically the volunteer coordinator – available for questions, concerns, or conflicts.
Currently, no expense allowances are paid. However, we are happy to acknowledge volunteer work upon request through a personalized confirmation or a volunteer certificate.
Beyond support, we also see volunteering as a space for cultural exchange and mutual enrichment. It’s about shared experiences, learning, and understanding.
Our volunteers are covered under the statutory accident insurance of BGW (Professional Association for Health Services and Welfare Care) when active within the scope of their volunteer work for the organization. Additionally, they are protected by our organization’s liability insurance in case they accidentally cause any damage.
Social counseling & individual support:
Help with job searches
Support in finding housing
Assistance with school/kindergarten searches
Language tutoring & everyday German
Support at events (e.g. setup, hosting, guest support)
Contributions to social media or public relations
Other individual engagement options upon arrangement
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