Düsseldorf's Child Protection League Celebration Marks 60 Years - Ddorf-Current News
Child Protection League of Duesseldorf Celebrates 60 Years of Service
The Child Protection League of Duesseldorf, a vital organisation dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of children, is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Founded in 1965 by René Heinersdorf, the league has been a beacon of hope and protection for children in the city, evolving and adapting to meet the changing needs of its community.
The league began its journey humbly, operating out of the Heinersdorff Concert Ticket Office by volunteers. Over the years, it has grown into a formidable force, collaborating with 47 sports clubs in Duesseldorf to prevent sexual abuse and identifying 19 intervention cases last year.
The organisation's current chairman is Dr. Hauke Duckwitz, and Bettina Erlbruch serves as the managing director. With a team of 385 members and around 110 volunteers, the league is committed to its core mission: to ensure every child in Duesseldorf has equal opportunities and protection, regardless of their background, social status, or circumstances.
The Child Protection League's efforts are funded through a mix of public funding and private donations, requiring an annual contribution of approximately 420,000 euros. The league's new headquarters is located on Rochusstraße.
In addition to its core mission, the league offers a range of services, including cooking groups, playdates, seasonal singing and dancing sessions, TuSch groups, self-assertion classes, and open gatherings for parents and children. The league's blue elephant van visits neighbourhoods and refugee shelters, educating children about their rights and providing guidance on nonviolent discipline to parents.
One of the league's most notable initiatives is the Mother's Cafe, operating at three locations, providing a supportive space for mothers and preventing potential crises. Past patrons from the last decade have united to shape the upcoming year in 2025 with special initiatives in honor of the organisation's 60th anniversary.
Future plans involve engaging additional organisations from cultural, traditional, and diverse backgrounds to further bolster child protection efforts. The league also plans to host a professional conference on child protection, a jubilee celebration, and a special family festival at the Children's Rights Plaza in the summer.
Throughout its history, the Child Protection League of Duesseldorf has faced challenges, including responding to increasing child poverty, integration of migrant children, and ensuring legal protection in judicial processes. However, the organisation has consistently risen to meet these challenges, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of children in Duesseldorf.
For more detailed information about the history, evolution, initiatives, challenges, and future plans of the Child Protection League of Düsseldorf, we recommend checking official local government websites or contacting the organisation directly. The league continues to be a vital part of the Duesseldorf community and looks forward to another 60 years of service.
The Child Protection League of Duesseldorf, in its pursuit of child safety and well-being, has extended its services to incorporate health-and-wellness programs like cooking groups and self-assertion classes. Recognizing the importance of a child's upbringing, the league also provides resources and guidance for parents through initiatives like the blue elephant van and the Mother's Cafe.
