The Organized Promise

The Association of a Thousand Possibilities

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Since its founding in 2008, the association Aufbruch am Arrenberg e.V. has lived up to its name: Like almost no other neighborhood, Arrenberg is experimenting with the future. Through new ideas, personal initiative, and mutual inspiration, plans for a harmonious community are developed and put into action. From everyday neighborhood interactions—such as children’s drawing contests, food rescue initiatives, or playgroups—to grand visions of an alternative social model—the “Climate Quarter.” Because a sustainable environment is the foundation for our goal: → healthy, → inclusive, → respectful, → responsible, → self-determined, → free, → innovative, and → living in peace → with one another.

Commitment is contagious

The Arrenberg Climate Neighborhood sees itself as a blueprint for other neighborhoods, cities, and municipalities, thereby serving as a role model. A growing number of people are looking with interest to Wuppertal and its pioneers, who are exploring new approaches but, above all, sharing valuable insights, pointing out dead ends, and communicating their experiences.

This is having a noticeable impact locally; more and more residents of Wuppertal are identifying with the projects and goals that Arrenberg exemplifies. No project meeting of the activists is complete without a round of introductions anymore, because new, committed citizens join every time—people who are happy that “things are happening in Wuppertal” and want to get involved.

The striking increase in membership also speaks volumes about the willingness of Wuppertal residents to support this vibrant neighborhood; over a third of the members come from other parts of the city. Another indication is the demand for housing recorded by the neighborhood office. For many Wuppertal residents, Arrenberg has become the “place to be”—an exciting part of their hometown where they want to belong.

Board of Directors

Hans-Georg Walter (1st Chair)
Ulrich T. Christenn (2nd Chair)
Inge Wilhelmina Scholz (Treasurer)
Carola Pauls (Hat Wearers and Projects)
MC Graeff (Secretary and Communications)

» More about the Board