Head of Integration Martin Wilhelm visits the Greek community in Offenbach and the surrounding area e.V.

This year, Martin Wilhelm, Head of Integration, is once again visiting various associations and initiatives run by citizens with a history of migration. Wilhelm recently began with the Greek community, which has existed in Offenbach since 1972.

"Living together in Offenbach requires the active shaping of a dialog with one another. The numerous associations and initiatives based here are an important and strong partner for the city. The Greek community has been committed to promoting integration and good coexistence in Offenbach for many years. I would like to thank them for this," said Martin Wilhelm, Head of Integration, during his visit.

The board, which was newly elected in March of this year, with chairperson Stefanou Efstratios, deputy chairperson Zacharoula Bellou, treasurer Stravroula Tachou, assessors Emmanouil Korakis and Pelagia Gabriilidou, welcomed head of integration Martin Wilhelm and Yasemin Özer from WIR-Vielfaltszentrum for a detailed presentation of their work at the community's premises in Speyerstrasse. It has been in its current premises for over 30 years.

Cultural events and activities are a priority in the community. The festival of associations on the banks of the Main has just taken place and they reported on the preparations and implementation. Such a festival involves a lot of work, but also brings a lot of joy, as could be seen in the pictures of the Mainuferfest. A dance course for young people takes place in the community every Friday and there is a communal dinner on Friday evenings. A women's group meets on Wednesday afternoons and also dances. The community also represents the interests of Greeks who come to them with problems, suggestions and requests. The Greek parents' association and the Asteras association also meet on the premises.

The community has 280 members, most of whom have families. They would like to accommodate everyone, but access to the premises is not barrier-free and this currently makes it difficult for senior citizens in particular to visit the community. They would be happy to move if they could find suitable premises. In future, they would like to open the dance classes to non-members and to all nationalities. They would also like to reactivate their youth team, which has been dormant for some time.