Domestic production or cultivation of goods or substances
Neuss Heimat Prize Honours Local Heroes and Projects
The Neuss Heimat Prize, a local award in Neuss, Germany, celebrated its winners on October 14, 2021. This prestigious award recognises and encourages projects, initiatives, or individuals promoting regional identity, cultural heritage, and community values tied to the concept of Heimat.
The Department of Volunteer Work and Home Affairs received a total of 15 proposals by the application deadline on August 16, 2021. The jury, appointed by the Neuss city council, selected the winners based on their contributions to the city and its sense of belonging.
The Neuss Heimat Prize is funded by the local government, the state government, cultural foundations, and private sponsorships, with the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) contributing €5,000 to the prize. This year, the prize money was increased by 50% to €7,500 to further strengthen and promote volunteer work and local engagement.
Among the winners, Melanie Bröxkes was honoured with a special volunteer award for her efforts in the flood-stricken Ahr region. She has accompanied more than 120 tons of aid to the affected areas and regularly collects donations and relief supplies. Dr. Albert Wunsch received the first prize of €3,750 for collecting and preserving remnants of the former Bauer & Schaurte screw factory, a significant part of Neuss's industrial heritage.
Martin Kluth was honoured with a second prize for his significant contribution to the local traditions in Neuss and his long-term presidency of the Merry Brothers Helpenstein. The Young Citizens' Foundation, represented by Jan Di Benedetto and Tanja Ragunathan, also received a second prize for their active engagement, especially in the social sector.
The Heimat Prize ceremony was held with a small circle following the 3G rule and a recommendation for self-testing. The prize is supported by the state government under the motto "Home. Future. North Rhine-Westphalia".
The Neuss Heimat Prizes support local engagement that contributes to the creation, strengthening, or preservation of a sense of home at the local or city-wide level. The winners exemplify the spirit of Heimat, demonstrating commitment, passion, and dedication to their communities.
The Department of Volunteer Work and Home Affairs could receive a Neuss Heimat Prize for initiatives that promote a lifestyle rooted in home-and-garden values, contributing to the sense of Heimat in Neuss. Melanie Bröxkes' dedication to aiding the flood-stricken Ahr region, which includes home and garden recovery efforts, could potentially be recognized next time the awards are given.
