On Saturday, November 8, the time had finally come: the new youth and administration center (JVZ) was officially opened - and many citizens and council members came to celebrate this special moment together. The building, which will in future combine youth, administration and meetings under one roof, was presented to the public for the first time - and was received with great interest.
Program with heart and diversity
The opening day offered a varied program for young and old. A colleague from building management guided interested visitors through the new building and gave exciting insights into its architecture and use.
The youth departments (including the Kompass youth center), social services, schools & sports, the youth employment agency and the job center presented themselves creatively and individually - each in their own personal way. Meanwhile, children could play, do handicrafts and explore in the Kompass youth center. For the adults, the cafeteria offered a wide selection of treats, such as delicious cakes baked by the SOS Children's Village canteen.
Attractive prizes awaited visitors at the wheel of fortune and the JVZ quiz, and the mayor's office hours were also very popular - many took the opportunity to talk to Mayor Dr. Dominik Pichler in person.
A solemn moment: the blessing
In a special ecumenical ceremony, the new house was blessed by Pastor Andreas Poorten and Pastor Karin Dembek. A sign of togetherness that impressively reflected the spirit of the house - community, encounter and trust.
Thanks and shared pride
In his speech, Mayor Dr. Dominik Pichler emphasized that the JVZ sends a strong signal: "This building is a commitment to community, education, family and participation. I wish it a lively operation, many encounters and a strong community."
Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who made this day and the entire project possible - the architects Michael van Ooyen and Oliver Droop, the tradesmen involved and especially our employees, who filled the new building with life with patience, commitment and team spirit even before it was officially completed. A musical highlight was provided by the new clarinet ensemble of the district music school under the direction of Wolfgang Güdden, which gave the celebration a festive atmosphere.
Together for the future
The day's proceeds of €475 will be used to set up a MakerSpace (FABLAB) at the Kevelaer comprehensive school. Together with Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, a modern, open workshop is being built there where pupils and teachers from all schools can get creative with digital technologies.
About the construction project
The path to the opening was characterized by perseverance, a wealth of ideas and cooperation. Since the Europe-wide tender in 2020, the project has been planned and implemented with great care. The renovation of the old building preserves the typical clinker brick architecture and the characteristic pitched roof, while the new building impresses with its clear lines, accessibility and openness.
Despite numerous challenges - from the pandemic to material shortages and exceptional weather conditions - the team remained true to its goal. As architect Oliver Droop aptly put it: "When there are multiple obstacles in your way, it is all the more important to pull together."
And that is exactly what has been achieved. The result is something to be proud of: a place of encounter, cooperation and the future.