Once a dilapidated farm, the AWO Schultenhof now stands as a testament to sustainable agriculture and inclusive employment. It shows how a community can come together. The AWO Schultenhof is more than just a farm. It is a symbol of hope and opportunity for people with and without disabilities.
In the 1990s, the AWO Dortmund made a bold decision. They chose to transform this derelict farm into something special. This decision was a statement of intent. It was a commitment to sustainable agriculture and employment models. Today, the AWO Schultenhof employs around 100 people. These people work together. They prove that integration can lead to economic viability.
The AWO Schultenhof is a certified Bioland farm. Here, people with and without disabilities live and work side by side. Their concept is unique. They cultivate grains, potatoes and vegetables together. They process and market them jointly. Free-range chickens, cattle, and pigs also call this farm home. The AWO Schultenhof truly embodies ecological harmony.
The farm operates as an external facility of the Werkstätten der Arbeiterwohlfahrt Dortmund. These workshops focus on vocational rehabilitation. They offer jobs to over 1,300 employees. These employees have different abilities. The workshops provide learning, support, and training. They help people participate in both professional and social life. They offer employment to those who cannot find it elsewhere due to their disabilities.
The AWO Schultenhof proudly adheres to Bioland standards. This means they avoid pesticides and artificial fertilizers. Their motto encapsulates their mission. It is “Living and working on an ecological farm.”
The AWO Schultenhof offers various amenities. It includes housing for 24 people with disabilities. There is an organic farm that cultivates diverse crops. A farm shop sells both in-house and external products. The AWO Schultenhof features a historic farmhouse. This farmhouse houses the farm shop. A land café with outdoor dining and a playground is also available.
Recently, the AWO Schultenhof celebrated a milestone. They inaugurated a new multi-purpose hall. This hall provides additional storage and production space. It improves winter workplace conditions. Marthe Pflüger, the farm manager, expressed gratitude. She thanked everyone involved for their perseverance. Anja Butschkau, chairwoman of AWO Dortmund, emphasized the hall’s importance. It secures the farm’s future. It creates a new work area, independent of weather conditions.
The AWO Schultenhof is also a protected building. It is listed as a historic monument by the city of Dortmund. This recognition underscores its cultural value. It also highlights its importance to the community.
The AWO Schultenhof is situated next to the Bolmke nature reserve. It is an ideal location for ecological farming. Visitors can explore the farm. They can enjoy the natural surroundings. They can learn about sustainable practices.
The AWO Schultenhof participates in Special Olympics Deutschland. They offer sports like football, swimming, riding, and table tennis. Thomas Kiesow, Head of Social Services, explains the benefits. These activities promote inclusion. They improve employees’ work ability and quality of life.
From its humble beginnings, the AWO Schultenhof has flourished. It demonstrates the power of sustainable practices. It exemplifies inclusive employment. It creates a welcoming space for everyone. The AWO Schultenhof is a living example. It shows how communities can thrive.