The youth workshop ‘Umkehrschwung’, meaning 'turn around', is a non-profit organization designed to help develop the social and economic integration of underprivileged young adults.

We offer:

• training in various skill-sets provided by experienced instructors
• assistance in the development of personal and social skills through counseling with social workers, and through the role model of each staff member, based on Christian values
• optional after-work programs designed to encourage the meaningful use of personal time
• advice related to questions of everyday life and in times of personal crisis
• optional after work programs in a Christian setting
• shared recreational activities in the areas of sports, cultural and social group activities

The goal for each participant:

• that he or she would find meaningful work at a local company immediately after his or her 12 months of training in Umkehrschwung
• that he or she would develop a working knowledge in an area of specialty
• that he or she would develop a strong work ethic, a higher self esteem, and positive social relationships
• that he or she would learn how to make responsible decisions for all areas of their life

The ‚Umkehrschwung‘ youth workshop includes various areas of training. Each one is lead by a qualified supervisor. Additionally, there is a close cooperation with local companies to assure a smooth transition of our participants into longterm employment.

Based on the enrollment of 36 participants, our staff  will include:

• 3  expert trainers
• 1 social worker
• administration, leadership and mentoring by Mr. and Mrs. Mitwalsky

==> 1 staff member per 6.5 participants on average

Our funding relies on three sources:

Key Features of our program:

• learning by doing
• seeing the value of productive work
•  training in various skill-sets
• gaining experience in the working environment by systematic, personal ,and practical training
• learning to respect rules and regulations in the workplace

We offer a comprehensive structure that will motivate and challenge each trainee:

Our Own Motivation:

Who we are:

• Dr. Alexander Mitwalsky, born in Augsburg, Germany
• PhD in Physics at Technical University of München/Munich, Germany
• Worked continually in the area of micro-electronics at various locations in Germany and abroad since 1987
• 1993 – 1999 delegated to work in the USA (Fishkill, NY; Richmond, VA)

• Martina Mitwalsky, born in Wuppertal, Germany
• Masters Degree in Geology/Paleontology at Ludwig-Maximilian-University, München/Munich
• Initially employed in the IT sector, then as a full time home-maker 
• 1993-1999 lived in the USA

Both of us have been church members for many years. We are especially committed to working with the young generation with whom we are able to build close relationships.

We both enjoy sports and outdoor activities.

Due to our depth of experience in building relationships with young people, openness to different cultures, and our enjoyment of new challenges, we are confident that we will successfully develop this ambitious project.

Address:

Jugendwerkstätten Umkehrschwung gGmbH

Pirnaer Landstraße 6

01237  Dresden

Germany

Phone: +49 (0) 351 / 3296 0070

Mobile: +49 (0) 163 / 370 40 71

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The ‘Umkehrschwung’ youth workshop has started at June 1^st, 2010.

‘Umkehrschwung’ is located in Dresden-Dobritz. The site provides 450 m² of workshops and 250 m² space of office space.

The ‘Umkehrschwung’ youth workshop is a non-profit organization financed primarily by donations and grants.