Commitment meets support: numerous projects and initiatives from Kevelaer once again received funding commitments at the festive "Evening for the clubs" a few days ago. The "Energy for Kevelaer" fund will also be distributing a total of 50,000 euros in 2025 - a contribution that comes from the wind energy from Kevelaer and directly benefits the Kevelaer club landscape. This year, more applications were received than ever before: 86 associations applied with their ideas and used the event in the Priesterhaus to network, present their projects and gain new impetus. "Kevelaer thrives on voluntary work. The fact that so many associations applied again this year is a strong sign of social cohesion in our city," said Mayor Dr. Dominik Pichler. "Every single application represents the commitment of people who are passionate about making a difference. The fund helps us to amplify this energy - quite literally with a tailwind from renewable sources."
Commitment and passion
The "Energy for Kevelaer" fund is financed from the proceeds of the wind farms in Twisteden-Rietweyen and Schwarzbruch. Stadtwerke Kevelaer is contributing 20,000 euros, NiersEnergie 10,000 euros and BW Kevelaer and Bürgerenergie Schwarzbruch-Nord a further 20,000 euros. Since it was founded in 2018, a total of 375,000 euros has been distributed to Kevelaer associations - initially with an initial amount of 25,000 euros, from 2019 with 50,000 euros annually. A committee made up of representatives from all fund providers and Mayor Dr. Pichler decides on the allocation of funding. "The money from the fund should benefit everyone in Kevela. We are therefore particularly pleased that over 80 associations have registered this year, all of which we can support with a contribution from the fund," explains Johannes Ermers, representative of the wind farm operators. "Wind power will continue to be a reliable pillar of support for Kevelaer associations."
Various ideas
Once again, the full spectrum of Kevelaer club life is reflected in the measures supported: the "Young Voices Winnekendonk" choir, for example, received funding for sheet music and choir microphones. The Theaterchor Niederrhein, sports clubs, shooting fraternities, daycare and school support associations as well as nature and heritage initiatives were also pleased to receive funding. The spectrum ranges from new training materials, tools and tents to energy-saving renovations and event formats for young and old. "Every year, I am amazed at how concrete and diverse the clubs' ideas are," said Wolfgang Toonen, Operations Manager at Stadtwerke Kevelaer. "The fund shows how the energy transition not only has an ecological but also a social impact. Wind power becomes appreciation - that is sustainable urban development in the best sense."
Signs of appreciation
The evening itself not only offered guests the opportunity to receive their funding commitment in person, but also to engage in conversation, network and develop new ideas. In addition to the project presentations, the Winnekendonk Music Society provided musical accompaniment. The successful event offered not only financial support, but also a visible sign of appreciation for all those who volunteer in Kevelaer on a daily basis.
The representatives of the 80 or so associations that had submitted an application all received a donation commitment - here from Wolfgang Toonen (left), Operations Manager of Stadtwerke Kevelaer.
A good 150 guests were welcomed to the "Evening for the associations" in the Priesterhaus on the occasion of the "Energy for Kevelaer" fund.