Heroes wanted!

Mrs. P. was a cheerful woman. She loved hiking around Jena, the hustle and bustle in the café and spending time with her family. Until a stroke suddenly changed everything. From one day to the next, she was dependent on help. Fortunately, her son Thomas was by her side. As she had not yet issued a health care proxy, legal guardianship had to be arranged. Fortunately, her son took over the legal guardianship - on a voluntary basis, with heart, patience and responsibility.

Stories like those of Mrs P. and Thomas are the focus of the 2nd Week of Care in Jena from 12 to 16 May 2025. Under the motto "Heroes wanted!", the care authority of the city of Jena and the care association Grenzenlos e. V., together with many partner organizations, want to educate, inform - and inspire people for an important voluntary position.

Who helps when no one is there?

Many people rely on their family. But there are not always relatives who can make decisions in an emergency. Without a power of attorney, a court has to order legal guardianship. This is when they are needed - voluntary or professional caregivers who manage legal matters on behalf of others.

"Many people believe that spouses or children can automatically step in - but that's not true," explains Caroline Jahr, head of the care authority. "A power of attorney is important - for everyone aged 18 and over."

Responsibility with support

Whether relatives or committed citizens - those who provide care on a voluntary basis take on a lot of responsibility. The guardianship authority and Grenzenlos e. V. - the legal guardianship division, as a recognized guardianship association of the city of Jena, offer support with training, advice and permanent contact persons. There are also clear requirements for professional caregivers - they work full-time, but with the same goal: to maintain the self-determination and quality of life of the people they care for.

A strong network

During the Week of Care, Jena shows how strong the network around the topic is: In addition to the care authority and the care association, the Ernst Abbe University, the university hospital, the hospice, the care support point, the senior citizens' office, the social psychiatric service of the city of Jena, the housing advice service and the Federal Association of Professional Caregivers* e. V. are also involved. The new Ernst Abbe Library will be the central event venue, with talks, advice, hands-on activities and themed media tables.

Join in - become a hero!

We are looking for people who want to help others - with understanding, empathy and energy. People like Thomas, who take responsibility when it counts.

Participation is free of charge - all interested parties are cordially invited!

You can find the complete program under Downloads.