VIENNA. in Brigittenau on 18 October Pensioner*innklub (Pensioners’ clubs) 20th year at the Vienna Social Fund Month of the Elderly Around 60 guests attended the Turkish-Austrian coffee party organized within the scope of the event.
Viennese elderly people enjoyed the famous dessert of Turkish art, “baklava”, accompanied by music on Friday. Vienna’s famous dessert Apfelstrudel (apple pie) They celebrated the unity of cultures by eating dinner with the participation of Mayor Michael Ludwig. ”Baklava meets apple strudel” event. Viyana Emekliler Konut Fonu (Fonds Kuratorium Vienna Pensioners Residences - Houses to Live in) organized by pensioner clubs and the Department of Integration and Diversity in the City of Vienna.
About 30% of Viennese over the age of 65 were born abroad or do not have Austrian citizenship, and among them are many Viennese of Turkish origin.
The Mayor of Vienna, Michael Ludwig, attended the Turkish-Austrian coffee break held at the 20th Vienna Pensioners* ininnenklub in Brigittenau. From left: Hanife Anıl (Head of the North-Eastern Regional Office of the Department of Integration and Diversity), Karl Dwulit (Vice President of the Brigittenau Region), Aslıhan Bozatemur (Member of the Vienna State Parliament and City Councillor), Mayor Michael Ludwig, Christine Dubravac-Widholm (President of the Brigittenau Region), Christian Hennefeind (Managing Director of Häuser zum Leben), Simon Bluma (Managing Director of Häuser zum Leben Welfare).
Ludwig: “Living together in Vienna, we support you in all areas.”
Mayor of Vienna Michael Ludwig He expressed his satisfaction with the participation as follows:
“One of the many reasons why Vienna is regularly recognized as one of the best cities to live in the world is the strong social cohesion and cohesion of our city. A large number of Viennese with immigrant backgrounds, especially the so-called first generation of guest workers, have contributed significantly to Vienna’s economic strength and thus to the city’s high quality of life and continue to contribute much to the economic strength of Vienna. That’s why I’m so happy that pension clubs in Vienna (Pinsinist*innenklub) are open spaces where people from different generations and backgrounds can come together. Events such as the Month of the Elderly and ‚Baklava Meets Apfelstrudel (apple strudel)’ are examples of how the City of Vienna creates a space for dialogue, exchange of ideas and getting to know each other. These events strengthen coexistence in our city by promoting understanding and exchange between generations and cultures. We support living together in Vienna in every aspect.”
Diversity in old age: encounters between baklava and apple pie
The Head of the Department of Integration and Diversity of the Municipality of Vienna emphasized that it is “very important for them to raise awareness in society and break down shyness about the services that the Municipality of Vienna offers to the elderly.” Theodora Manolakos“Viennese senior citizens’ clubs are a great example where elderly people, regardless of their background, can come together and spend time together,” he said.
The event will be held in the evening at the Emekliler Kulübü 20 with the popular saz artist. Mansur Bildik He ended with his well-known tunes.
Pensioners’ clubs in 150 locations in Vienna (Die Wiener Pensionist*innenklubs)
Retirement clubs, located in 150 locations in Vienna, are open to all seniors and invite them to take advantage of various leisure programs. With a free club card, visitors can attend events and take advantage of additional discounts.
Houses to live in Genel Müdürü Christian Hennefeind He said the following on this subject: “Die Wiener Pensionist*innenklubs are places to enjoy life, socialize and meet people, because life is better when spent them together. Homes to live in offer a wide variety of programs that meet the individual needs of our residents, club visitors and their loved ones. Our aim is to ensure that the Viennese elderly live a self-determined life. “
Experience everything together in Seniors’ Month
Short name for the City of Vienna at the Vienna Social Fund, FSWTogether with the “Vienna for Older People” team, he organizes a support program for Older People’s Month every year.
Vienna Municipality Pensioners Representative Sabine Hofer-Gruber He expressed his satisfaction on this issue as follows: “In its 14th year, Seniors’ Month offers many opportunities to get together, exercise and get motivated. This time, we were able to organize over 100 free events together with our partner organisations. Organized by Häuser zum Leben and the Department of Integration and Diversity, the event ‚Baklava meets Apfelstrudel’ focuses not only on the elderly but also on Turkish and Austrian culture. “
FSW General Manager Anita Bauer “As FSW, we provide social security and ensure that every citizen of Vienna gets exactly the support they need. Social life, social participation and inclusion are vital factors in enabling people of all ages to live well in our city. “During Senior Citizens’ Month, FSW actively supports the quality of life of Vienna’s senior citizens.” he said. (Agency, PID, yenivatan.at)
What role do cultural events play in promoting social cohesion among seniors in multicultural cities like Vienna?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Theodora Manolakos, Head of the Department of Integration and Diversity of the Municipality of Vienna.
Time.news Editor: Good day, Ms. Manolakos! We’re excited to have you here to discuss the recent festivities celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Pensioners’ Clubs in Vienna, particularly the “Baklava Meets Apfelstrudel” event. It seems like a beautiful reflection of Vienna’s diverse culture. Can you tell us what inspired this event?
Theodora Manolakos: Thank you for having me! The inspiration behind the “Baklava Meets Apfelstrudel” event comes from our desire to foster unity and understanding among Vienna’s diverse elderly community. With around 30% of Viennese seniors born abroad or not holding Austrian citizenship, particularly many from Turkish backgrounds, it was an opportunity to celebrate our cultural diversity and create spaces for dialog and connection.
Time.news Editor: That’s wonderful! I noticed that Mayor Michael Ludwig also attended the event and expressed his appreciation for the social cohesion in Vienna. How do you think events like these contribute to the overall cultural fabric of the city?
Theodora Manolakos: Events like these are essential for breaking down barriers and fostering relationships among different generations and backgrounds. They reinforce the message that, despite our diverse origins, we share common values and experiences. Mayor Ludwig’s presence underscores the city’s commitment to supporting its citizens and promoting inclusivity. It’s about creating understanding and enhancing collaboration!
Time.news Editor: Vienna has a rich tradition of integrating immigrants into its social structure. How do organizations like the Pensioners’ Clubs serve the needs of the elderly, especially those from immigrant backgrounds?
Theodora Manolakos: The Pensioners’ Clubs provide accessible meeting spaces where seniors can engage, build friendships, and participate in various programs tailored to their interests. The clubs are open to all and encourage mutual support among members, regardless of their background. They play a critical role in reducing isolation, which is especially important for seniors who may feel disconnected from the community.
Time.news Editor: Your focus on breaking down social barriers is commendable. Can you share how the municipality plans to continue promoting this inclusivity among the elderly moving forward?
Theodora Manolakos: We recognise the importance of sustained engagement. Our commitment includes raising awareness about the services available for elderly citizens, facilitating opportunities for cultural exchange, and offering varied programming at the clubs. We’re continually evolving to ensure that all seniors feel valued and included in our community’s narrative.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, what do you hope participants take away from events like the “Baklava Meets Apfelstrudel”?
Theodora Manolakos: I hope participants leave with a deeper appreciation of each other’s cultures and the realization that diversity enriches our lives. It’s essential for them to feel a sense of belonging and connectedness within Vienna, understanding that every culture adds to the multifaceted identity of our city. Events like these are just the beginning of many meaningful interactions to come!
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights, Ms. Manolakos! It’s heartening to see initiatives that promote unity and understanding in such a vibrant city. We look forward to more such events in the future!
Theodora Manolakos: Thank you! It was a pleasure to share our vision and initiatives with you. We believe the best is yet to come!
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This engaging interview highlights the importance of cultural diversity and integration, showcasing efforts to foster connections in Vienna’s senior community.
