Burgerstiftungsbewegung in Deutschland: Etablierung und Potential

In: Neue soziale Bewegungen: Forschungsjournal, Band 21, Heft 4, S. 128-134

Abstract

Since the originally American citizens charity foundation emerged in Germany in 1996, its growth has been dynamic: after an initial emergence in two cities (Gutersloh and Hanover), the foundation has spread nationwide (237 foundations in August 2008 with a total property of 110 million euro. In its German form, the foundation shows some typical characteristics of civic-social organization: self-organization, participation possibilities for citizens and the obligation of non-profit goals. The locally or regionally active foundation focus on social challenges in their region. The non-profit status is recognized, but regards a broader purpose in order to respond to local needs. The ranges generally covered are those involving children and teenagers, social goals, environmental protection, integration of migrants, art and culture, sports, etc. O. van Zijl