Dusseldorf: Hispi marks a decade with a series of events and enterprises to commemorate its milestone anniversary
The Hispi House of Friends, a community-oriented initiative based in Düsseldorf, recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, this former hotel has been transformed into a welcoming space for disadvantaged refugee groups, offering a range of services to help them integrate and improve their quality of life.
Hispi's projects have gained nationwide attention, with many former students becoming volunteer supporters. The organization focuses on adults who often do not have a claim to language courses, providing eleven free course units daily to teach language and support individuals with their skills.
At the House of Friends, social support is a key component. The organisation creates safe spaces for refugees to connect, share experiences, and build community networks. The wall in the seminar and common room was designed by the Hispi Art Group, reflecting the vibrant and cohesive atmosphere of the space.
For many refugees, Hispi means family and a source of hope. Over 400 volunteers have helped at Hispi since its founding in 2015, with over 40 refugees from disadvantaged groups receiving accommodation, counseling, and qualification at the project.
The event took place at the location of the latest Hispi project, where residents learned catering, serving snacks and mixing cocktails. The celebration was attended by Dr. Reinhold Hahlhege, CEO of Hispi, Helma Wassenhoven, head of the department for civic engagement, and Lord Mayor Dr. Stephan Keller, who praised the projects and thanked everyone for their commitment.
Hispi's projects extend beyond language and education, with plans and information for residents displayed on a wall in the lobby. The initiative also offers legal assistance, counseling and mental health services, employment assistance, and cultural integration events to foster mutual understanding between refugees and the local community.
The Hispi House of Friends is a collaboration between the city of Düsseldorf, Sophia Akademie gGmbH, and various gastronomy and hotel industry partners. The project's motto, "Our Hispi is colorful," reflects the diverse and inclusive nature of the organisation.
For those interested in contributing to Hispi's work through sponsorship or volunteering, more information can be found on their website or by contacting local refugee support networks or social service agencies in Düsseldorf that work with refugee communities. The celebration also featured a Wish Tree inspired by Yoko Ono's Wish Tree, inviting everyone to make a wish for peace and unity.
The Hispi House of Friends expansion includes home-and-garden projects, aiming to create comfortable living spaces for its residents. Its education-and-self-development initiatives extend beyond language courses, offering residents opportunities in culinary skills and art.
