Stiftung augen auf! Denkmal und Kultur

The Stiftung augen auf! Denkmal und Kultur is a non-partisan, non-profit foundation based in Menden (Sauerland), dedicated to the preservation of historic architectural monuments and the promotion of democratic values. Since its founding in 2007 by entrepreneur Peter Hoppe, the foundation has restored and managed historical witnesses such as the Schmarotzerhaus (1710–2009) and the Poenigeturm (1271–2011) in Menden. Furthermore, it is committed as a network for democracy and humanity by involving contemporary witnesses in schools and commemorative events, initiating student projects, and organizing events to raise awareness among young people for democratic culture and civil courage.

The Stiftung augen auf! Denkmal und Kultur is committed to actively shaping a liberal-democratic society. It believes in the power of historical witnesses as a bridge to the present and supports projects in line with its nonpartisan mission that strengthen humanity, diversity, tolerance, and civic courage. Young people are involved as creators and multipliers to make democracy tangible and preserve it.

The foundation's offerings are primarily aimed at students of secondary schools as well as youth groups and educational institutions in Germany. In addition, local citizens, teachers, contemporary witnesses, and cross-school networks are addressed. Projects are particularly supported in which young people actively participate in the organization, implementation, and promotion of democratic values.