Wilhelm Oberle Social Award

Each year on International Volunteer Day, December 5th, the Wilhelm Oberle Foundation awards a Social Prize to honor exceptional civic engagement in the Freiburg/Black Forest region. Individuals, groups, or initiatives are recognized for creating a sustainable societal benefit through their voluntary involvement. The evaluation focuses primarily on the relevance and public benefit of the projects, their continuity, as well as their innovativeness and exemplary impact for other volunteers. With this prize, the Foundation highlights the significant role of voluntary activities and acknowledges the diverse forms of lived solidarity and promotion of democracy in the region.

Eligible to participate are both private individuals and non-profit organizations that can demonstrate an open and community-oriented initiative without partisan or denominational background. Prior recognition through other awards is not required, but proof of verifiable voluntary engagement in the Black Forest is necessary. The aim of the award is to make civic engagement visible, inspire new initiatives, and strengthen social cohesion. The award is presented annually in a ceremonial setting and sends a strong signal about the importance of voluntary action in the fields of social affairs, labor, and democracy. Interested applicants are encouraged to present their projects and activities in detail and thus contribute to the vibrant community in the Black Forest.