Dusseldorf: Hispi marks its 10th anniversary with a string of events and accomplishments
Hispi House of Friends: A Beacon of Hope in Düsseldorf
In the heart of Düsseldorf, Germany, a unique project is making a significant impact on the lives of refugees. Hispi House of Friends is a refugee support initiative that offers comprehensive assistance to help refugees integrate into the local community and rebuild their lives.
The project, inspired by Yoko Ono's Wish Tree, is housed in the House of Friends, a location that has quickly made contact with the neighborhood and feels at home. The House of Friends is a community-centered initiative, offering various services tailored to the social, psychological, and practical needs of refugees.
Hispi collaborates with local organizations, governmental bodies, and volunteer groups to provide essential resources. These partnerships enable the project to coordinate legal and social services, access language and educational programs, offer healthcare and psychological support, and facilitate cultural exchange and community events.
Hispi offers a range of services, including counseling and social support, language classes, workshops and training, psychosocial support, and community activities. The project aims to create a welcoming and supportive environment where refugees can receive help, connect with others, and learn new skills to aid their integration into German society.
Since its inception in 2015, Hispi has been supporting over 40 refugees from disadvantaged groups, providing accommodation, counseling, and qualifications. The project has positively influenced refugees by enhancing their ability to adapt to life in Germany, reducing social isolation, increasing access to healthcare and social services, empowering them with new skills for employment and self-sufficiency, and supporting their mental health and wellbeing during a challenging transition period.
The 10th anniversary of Hispi was celebrated at Hispi House of Friends, the former Hotel friends at Worringer Platz. The event was attended by the Lord Mayor, further highlighting the project's importance in the local community.
Hispi's motto, "Our Hispi is colorful," reflects the project's vibrant and inclusive nature. Since 2018, Hispi has been a part of Sophia:Akademie gGmbH. The project is carried out jointly with the city of Düsseldorf, Sophia Akademie gGmbH, and various cooperation partners from gastronomy and hotels.
The project encourages involvement through sponsorship and volunteering. Many former students have become volunteer supporters at Hispi, contributing to the project's success. One such example is Marilu Jungjohann, a resident, who found the photo with the Lord Mayor to be special.
In addition to the services offered, residents of Hispi House of Friends learn catering skills, serving snacks and mixing cocktails. The wall in the seminar and common room was designed by the Hispi Art Group, adding a touch of creativity and personal touch to the project.
Hispi House of Friends plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for refugees in Düsseldorf, promoting inclusion, and facilitating their integration into German society. The project continues to make a difference, one refugee at a time.
At Hispi House of Friends, refugees not only find essential resources and accommodations but also opportunities for personal growth and education-and-self-development through learning new skills such as catering and mixology. The project's community activities and workshops aim at fostering personal-growth, empowering refugees to adapt more efficiently to life in Germany.
