Theresa Lang, a working student in the AI & Data department, has been involved in children’s and youth work for many years. Every week, she coaches children and teenagers in handball, helps organize the annual Epiphany carol singing campaign (Sternsinger), and supports the annual youth camp organized by the Christelried association.
The youth camp in particular plays a special role in her volunteer work. For ten days each year, around 50 children and young people spend time together with a team of volunteers in the middle of nature – without electricity, without running water, and far removed from everyday life.
In the interview, she explains how she first became involved in volunteering, why working with young people continues to inspire her, and what she personally gains from the experience.
How did you become involved in volunteer work with children and young people, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I became involved in volunteering mainly through my family. My parents showed me from an early age how valuable community and club life can be. Both sports clubs and the Sternsinger tradition were part of my everyday life from childhood. I have played handball since I was eight years old. Over time, I realized that as a coach, I could take responsibility myself and pass something on to younger generations. I really enjoy inspiring children and young people through sport and supporting them in their personal development.
The transition into organizing the Sternsinger campaign was equally natural. As a child, I took part for many years, then I began supporting the experienced volunteers, and eventually my sister and I took over the organization.
I became involved in the youth camp through my cousin. After experiencing two unforgettable summers there as a participant, it quickly became clear to me that I wanted to return one day as a volunteer leader. Today, I especially enjoy helping children and young people create similar memories of their own.
The youth camp is a major part of your volunteer work. What makes it so special for you and the children?
The camp is something very special to me every year. For ten days, we deliberately step away from the often hectic pace of everyday life and focus on what really matters. Our campsite is located in a clearing in the middle of a forest – without running water, without electricity, and with almost no mobile phone reception. This unique environment is exactly what makes the experience so valuable for the children. Instead of smartphones and digital media, the focus is on playing together, adventure, campfires, new friendships, and community. It is wonderful to see how the children flourish during this time and realize that it often does not take much to be happy.
For many of them, it is also the first time they have spent several days away from their parents. They learn to take responsibility, work as a team, and often exceed their own expectations. What impresses me most every year is how much self-confidence they gain during those ten days.
