SPD Holds Initial Sports Conference in Oberhausen
In the heart of Oberhausen, a sports conference was recently held by the local SPD, bringing together around 50 representatives from various sports clubs. The event, organized by Sandra Jungmaier, the deputy party chairperson, aimed to discuss pressing topics such as potential tax relief for volunteers and the promotion of sports in kindergartens and primary schools.
The sports conference was a testament to the Oberhausen SPD's commitment to addressing the specific needs of its residents. Last year, the party decided to establish thematic workshops to tackle issues like this one, offering events on topics that matter most to the community.
The cooperation with local schools and kindergartens was a key focus of the conference. Manfred Gregorius, President of the City Sports Association, emphasized the importance of inspiring children to take up sports as early as possible. He believes that a strong foundation in sports can contribute significantly to a child's overall development.
Sports funding in Oberhausen typically comes from several sources. Local governments often allocate budgets to support sports clubs, infrastructure, and events. Clubs may apply for grants to finance equipment, facility upgrades, or youth programs. State and federal programs, as well as national sports federations, also provide funding opportunities. Local businesses may sponsor clubs, and European Union grants sometimes support community sports and integration programs.
To benefit from these funding sources, local sports clubs can apply for municipal grants through Oberhausen city’s sports department or youth office. They can also collaborate with regional sports associations for funding and training opportunities. Seeking partnerships with local companies and institutions, participating in statewide sports promotion programs from North Rhine-Westphalia, and utilizing federal funding schemes designed to promote grassroots sports are other ways clubs can access funding.
For precise, up-to-date details, contacting Oberhausen’s local government offices or the city’s sports development department directly is advisable. They can provide information on current calls for applications, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
The sports conference was just the beginning, according to Sandra Jungmaier. She plans to incorporate the ideas and suggestions of the participants into the political work, ensuring that the needs of Oberhausen's sports clubs are heard and addressed. The conference was a good start for many more conversations and events, she said.
The work of volunteer trainers, coaches, and club presidents is valued for contributing significantly to social cohesion and the integration of people with a migration background in their free time. In 2021, the honorary allowance was increased to 840 euros per year for each volunteer and up to 3,000 euros per year for coaches. It was also discussed whether it would be possible to further relieve volunteers from a tax perspective in the future.
The "Sports Gift Cards for Children" action was mentioned, which enables every child in the first grade to join a sports club for free for six months. Oberhausen has already benefited from such programs, with the Sports Church in Osterfeld and the Movement Hill in the Vonderort recreational park, which received a total of 4.2 million euros in investment.
Club life is an important pillar of Oberhausen society, where people grow together, work towards common goals, and support each other. In honorary positions, volunteers can benefit from many positive community experiences and make a valuable contribution to society with their own means.
Sabine Poschmann, SPD's federal parliamentary spokesperson on sports, reported on funding programs of the federal government. She provided specific tips for Oberhausen sports functionaries, including contacting the German Foundation for Civic Engagement.
In conclusion, the Oberhausen SPD's sports conference was a significant step towards supporting local sports clubs and promoting sports in the community. With the right resources and partnerships, Oberhausen's sports clubs can continue to thrive and provide opportunities for people of all ages to engage in sports.
Football was one of the sports discussed at the conference, aiming to foster participation and development in local schools and kindergartens. To secure funding for sports clubs, it is advisable to apply for municipal grants through Oberhausen city’s sports department or youth office, collaborate with regional sports associations, seek partnerships with local companies and institutions, participate in statewide sports promotion programs, and utilize federal funding schemes designed to promote grassroots sports.
