We get so much gratitude back

01/30/2026 | Commitment & interesting facts

Emely Oberhumer in action. Photo credit: Red Cross Upper Austria

Try out what suits you and do something meaningful at the same time: this is exactly what the Voluntary Social Year (FSJ) at the Upper Austrian Red Cross makes possible. Red Cross. Since 2016, people aged 18 and over have had the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience in the rescue service and in health and social services. The Red Cross Youth has also recently become part of this programme. "The young people continue to develop, gain valuable knowledge and experience real community," emphasises Red Cross President Gottfried Hirz.

Learning, growing and experiencing community

Anna Bleckenwegner, Emely Oberhumer and Felix Öllinger are currently completing their voluntary social year with the Red Cross Youth. For them, the main focus is on personal gain. "We have a lot of fun together and get so much appreciation and gratitude back from the children," says Anna Bleckenwegner. In the Ried district, she visits kindergartens, holds reading coaching sessions in primary schools and organises youth group lessons.

Learning to help through play

Emely Oberhumer is active in the Vöcklabruck district. Together with ROKO, the likeable character from the Red Cross Youth, she teaches kindergarten children about first aid, danger awareness and social skills in a playful way. "When the children see the first aid kit or a rescue vehicle from the inside for the first time, they are always thrilled," says the 20-year-old.

Sustainable commitment with an impact

The figures also show that the Voluntary Social Year has a lasting effect: Around 80 per cent of graduates continue to volunteer with the Upper Austrian Red Cross afterwards. Red Cross afterwards. One of them is Felix Öllinger. The 18-year-old mainly works in the learning centre in Traun, where he helps children to learn, reads with them, plays and prepares them for tests. "Being able to support the children gives me an incredibly good feeling," he says.

Respectful interaction, teamwork and the feeling of being needed are at the centre of the voluntary social year. This not only provides valuable experience, but also often leads to new friendships. We think the Voluntary Social Year is #schongenial.