
The Elisabeth Rose of Caritas Upper Austria is a symbol that commemorates the work of St Elisabeth, the patron saint of Caritas.
"With this award, we want to honour special social commitment and show our gratitude. All five women and men live humanity and charity courageously and energetically on a voluntary basis - in the Caritas facilities and in the parishes. They promote solidarity and cohesion and help people to help themselves. In doing so, they are living the basic mission of Caritas," said Caritas Upper Austria Director Franz Kehrer.
The award winners and their achievements:
- Markus Hager (50) from Ansfelden
has been supporting young people with learning difficulties as a volunteer tutor for nine years. With patience and empathy, he helps them to successfully master vocational school and is also available to them outside of regular hours via chat. His work combines clear messages with understanding and helps the young people to lead a self-determined life. - Irmentrud Grininger (72) from Zwettl an der Rodl
worked for Caritas in mobile nursing and palliative care for 23 years. Even after retiring, she is still involved in a variety of activities: she organises Caritas home collections, offers social activities for older people and is involved in the SELBA (Independent Living in Old Age) project. Her commitment makes a decisive contribution to preventing loneliness and promoting solidarity. - Johann Schwarzbauer-Haupt (68) from Leonding
worked in various Caritas areas for almost 30 years and is still involved after his retirement. He showed particular commitment during the Ukraine crisis by helping to coordinate help on a telephone hotline. He is a reliable support in the parish of St Konrad and at events such as Advent at the cathedral. - Pauline Reitinger (65) from Kopfing
Former employee at the St Pius Caritas site, who continues to volunteer after her retirement. She puts her heart and soul into looking after the well-being of the residents, accompanies athletes and provides support at celebrations. She is also involved in her parish and drives for "meals on wheels". Her voluntary work totals up to 400 hours a year. - Bernhard Bogenhuber (62) from Mauerkirchen
was involved with the parish Caritas kindergarten in his home parish for 26 years. Under his leadership, important projects such as the renovation and expansion of the kindergarten were realised. As a vocational school teacher and member of the volunteer fire brigade, he is an important pillar of the community.
With the Elisabeth Rose, a handmade unique piece from the Caritas project "Chance Metall", Caritas Upper Austria honours the commitment of these people who exemplify solidarity and charity in their everyday lives. They send a strong signal for humanity and solidarity.
#It is #schongenial that voluntary work is seen, respected and honoured accordingly. This is not always and everywhere a matter of course!



