Blog post - 25. Sep 2025

Yesterday, the first workshop in the new series “Workshops for Volunteers” took place in the Barterre of the Old Gasometer in Zwickau. The response was very positive: 16 enthusiastic participants took advantage of the four hours of intensive training to learn about “Acquiring funding for your association” in a compact and practical way. Thanks to the speakers from the Dresden Cultural Office, all visitors made such good progress that the topic of projects and project applications (and what is crucial!) was also covered.

Volunteer work is often the driving force behind innovative ideas – but without the necessary know-how for project planning and financing, it can be difficult. This is exactly where the kick-off workshop came in. In four entertaining hours, the participants gained in-depth knowledge on key issues relating to project initiation, funding opportunities, and their specifics.

The speakers from the Dresden Cultural Office had designed the workshop to be interactive from the outset. In small groups, the participants quickly got to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere, were able to apply what they had learned directly, contribute their own ideas, and discuss challenges from their everyday volunteer work. The large group was used for theoretical basics and open discussions.

Looking ahead: Focus on proof of use

The successful start has whetted appetites for more. Many of the participants have already signaled their interest in the second workshop in the series. This will focus on the often tricky but essential topic of proof of use. This is an important step in ensuring that projects are not only successfully implemented but also properly accounted for.