- Wanted: Volunteer “wellcome angel”
- Location: Jena-Lobeda
- Task: Relieving a family with a newborn in their daily routine
- Organization: Bürgerstiftung Jena Saale-Holzland
- Requirements: Time, empathy, and enjoyment in interacting with children
Jena (11.02.2026) – It is often said that it takes a whole village to raise a child. Yet in modern society, this “village” is frequently missing. Grandparents live far away, partners are heavily involved in their careers, and social networks often have to be built from scratch. This is exactly where the Bürgerstiftung Jena Saale-Holzland steps in, currently seeking urgent support for a specific case in the district of Lobeda.
A listening ear and practical help
For the proven “wellcome” project, a so-called angel is being sought – a volunteer willing to lend a hand to a young family in Lobeda. The birth of a child is a joyful event, but it often turns daily life completely upside down. Lack of sleep, uncertainty, and the 24/7 care of a newborn can drain parents’ strength.
The tasks for the volunteer are as simple as they are valuable: it is about gifting time once or twice a week for a few hours. This could mean watching over the baby’s sleep while the mother takes a shower or rests in peace. It could be a walk with the stroller in the fresh air or playing with a sibling. Sometimes, just being there and listening can work wonders. This is not professional midwifery or domestic help, but rather modern neighborhood assistance.
The “wellcome” project: Relief where it is needed
The “wellcome” service is a nationwide success model, coordinated in Jena by the Bürgerstiftung. The idea behind it is preventative: young families should be supported before stress levels become too high. Especially in a large district like Lobeda, where many families live, the need for social networking and unbureaucratic help is significant.
For volunteers, the project offers a meaningful activity. They are prepared and accompanied in their work by the coordinators of the Bürgerstiftung. Insurance coverage and regular exchange meetings are standard, as is the reimbursement of travel expenses. Those who get involved as a “wellcome angel” experience a lot of gratitude and make a direct contribution to the healthy upbringing of children in our city on the Saale.
The challenges of the modern family
The situation of the family in Lobeda is exemplary for many young parents. The pressure to do everything perfectly, combined with a lack of rest, can quickly lead to burnout. Projects like “wellcome” fill the gap created by changing family structures. An “angel” brings calm to the storm of the first months of life and signals to parents: you are not alone.
No special prior knowledge is usually required for this volunteer role – more important are patience, reliability, and a heart for children. Whether students, people in the family phase, or seniors with life experience: anyone who enjoys interacting with infants is welcome.
How you can help
If you live in Lobeda or the surrounding area and can imagine supporting this family for a limited time during the child’s first year of life, the Bürgerstiftung Jena Saale-Holzland looks forward to hearing from you. Interested parties can find further information about the project and contact persons directly on the Bürgerstiftung website under the “wellcome Jena” section.
Help make Jena even more livable for the little ones and their parents.