FAQ for new helpers
The most common questions for getting started
How much time do I need to commit?
You decide that yourself! Some helpers come once a week for 2 hours, others only for special events. Every contribution counts.
Am I insured?
Yes! Volunteers are covered by liability and accident insurance through the group insurance of the Free State of Bavaria. If you have any questions, please contact the coordination team.
Do I need special qualifications?
No! You just need openness, patience, and to enjoy interacting with people. You will learn everything else with us.
What should I do if there are problems?
You are never alone! If you have questions or difficulties, contact the coordination team or experienced helpers. We also have regular exchange meetings.
Can I cancel at short notice?
Of course! Life gets in the way sometimes. Just please let us know in good time so we can find a replacement.
Do I get an expense allowance?
The work is voluntary. Travel costs can be reimbursed by arrangement. Upon request, we can issue a certificate for your commitment.
Guides & Checklists
Practical help for your work
Checklist: First visit to the authorities (Behördengang)
What you need to know when accompanying someone to an authority (Behörde).
- Confirm appointment
- Check all documents
- Take power of attorney (Vollmacht) with you
- Arrive on time
Guide: Housing search (Wohnungssuche)
Tips and assistance for supporting the housing search.
- Where to look?
- Which documents?
- Accompany to viewing
- Check tenancy agreement (Mietvertrag)
Guide: Job search (Arbeitssuche)
How you can support with the job search and applications.
- Create a CV (Lebenslauf)
- Write an application (Bewerbung)
- Practice job interviews (Vorstellungsgespräch)
- Check work permit (Arbeitserlaubnis)
Training & Seminars
Further education for your volunteer work
Intercultural Competence
You will learn to understand cultural differences and handle them sensitively.
Next date: On request
VHS Regensburger Land
Basics of Asylum Law (Asylrecht)
Basic knowledge about asylum procedures (Asylverfahren), residence permits (Aufenthaltstitel), and the rights of refugees.
Next date: On request
Caritas Regensburg
Dealing with Trauma
Raising awareness of traumatic experiences and appropriate reactions.
Next date: On request
Diakonie Regensburg
Material Pool
Downloads and templates for your work
Brochures & useful links
Background knowledge, argumentation aids, and information for volunteer work
Pro Human Rights. Contra Prejudices.
Facts and arguments for the debate on refugees in Germany and Europe (PRO ASYL / Amadeu Antonio Foundation, 2017)
Download PDFWelcome to Germany (BAMF)
Official brochure of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) with important information for new arrivals.
To the BAMF websiteHealth Guide for Asylum Seekers
Brochure from the Federal Ministry of Health – available in German, English, Arabic, and other languages.
Learn moreHow do I help my traumatized child?
Brochure from the Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists for parents and accompanying persons – available in multiple languages.
To the BPtK websiteLearn German for free
Online German courses and learning materials from the Goethe-Institut and Deutsche Welle.
Refugee Guide – Orientation Aid
Multilingual orientation aid for life in Germany – available in over 15 languages.
refugeeguide.de
Supervision & Exchange
Volunteer work can also be stressful. That is why we offer regular opportunities for exchange.
Monthly Helper Meeting
Once a month, all volunteers meet to exchange ideas. Here you can:
- Share experiences
- Discuss difficult situations
- Get tips from other helpers
- Contribute new ideas
Next meeting
Jugendtreff Lappersdorf
Any questions?
We are here for you! Contact us with any questions about your volunteer work.