The community of Neufelden is thriving through the initiatives of the recently established association "Wohnen & Erleben – gemeinsam aktiv in Neufelden" which aims to bring people together and promote harmonious living among residents. Founded just over a year ago, the organization seeks to create vibrant communal activities and support systems across different life stages and backgrounds.
At its core, the association focuses on various community-driven events, fostering networks for concern, and promoting neighborly support. To achieve this, the organization collaborates with existing offerings and institutions, ensuring their initiatives are well-integrated within the local framework. According to Obfrau Hermine Rachinger, the group’s chairwoman, they aim to engage individuals from all walks of life. "We want to appeal to everyone and warmly invite anyone interested to our workshops to contribute ideas and participate in enhancing social life in Neufelden," she expressed.
Throughout its inaugural phase, "Wohnen & Erleben" showcased its diverse programs at events like the Christmas market and held cooperative projects with Arcus Sozialnetzwerk GmbH, including the joint Easter basket weaving workshop. The group also organized festive gatherings for residents living with assistance, such as Christmas parties and egg-dyeing events, alongside fun-filled sing-alongs.
Interest from the community has led to various activities including chair exercises, Tarock games, summer cinema, and knitting sessions—events which reflect the active participation of Neufelden’s residents. Of special note this spring is the introduction of German language classes aimed at women from migrant backgrounds, helping them integrate more firmly within the community.
The concept of collective action is also featured within the broader Agenda.Zukunft process underway in Neufelden. At project workshops held last November, six key topics were prioritized, leading to the establishment of project groups dedicated to advancing communal living. The "Gemeinsam Aktiv Sein" working group—of which "Wohnen & Erleben" is part—recently received renewed energy as it brainstorms and develops new ideas to enrich the local social fabric.
One of the novel initiatives launched is the Market Meeting. Set to occur on the first Saturday of each month following the farmers' market at the social center, this open café session encourages residents to meet for casual conversation—adding another layer of community connection.
Looking forward, the organization plans to arrange events targeted at newly relocated citizens, particularly engaging the younger generation. Importantly, the association has grown to over 60 members, demonstrating significant grassroots support.
On the horizon, the second member workshop is scheduled for February 28 at the Social Center, where participants will reflect on past achievements and collaboratively outline the agenda for the next two years. These workshops aim to keep the conversations going and to catalyze more involvement, keeping the lines of communication open as development continues.
Meanwhile, community traditions are kept alive and celebrated by dedicated members like Manne Bailer, who has spent 30 years contributing to the Ehinger Fasnet, or carnival traditions. Known affectionately as "Bailer Manne," he is the mastermind behind the unique belts worn by the demon group, having crafted around 200 and fitted them with four bells each—a task requiring both skill and dedication.
Bailer first entered the carnival world under the guidance of previous belt makers. Despite being trained as an electrician, his knack for leatherwork, inherited from his grandfather, made him the go-to artisan for the Ehinger Narrenzunft Spritzenmuck. Recall the delight in his eyes as he recalls crafting belts during quiet moments on various holidays, ensuring the new members are outfitted for the celebrations every January.
His volunteer efforts not only preserve local culture but serve as the glue keeping community spirits high. Manne's craftsmanship is complemented by his role as one of the carnival's beloved Dixifahrer, driving vintage vehicles during celebrations. He has plans to stay active until one of these Dixi bellies reaches its centennial year.
Despite the challenges of reduced artisanship within the community, Bailer remains resolute. "I help those I can within the Narrenzunft; we support each other here," he remarks, illustrating the community spirit cultivated over decades.
With local organizations like "Wohnen & Erleben" and committed individuals such as Manne Bailer, the long-term community solidarity of Neufelden and Ehingen is not just preserved but enhanced—creating spaces where friendships flourish, and traditions thrive. This synergistic effort not only champions local culture but also nurtures every resident’s sense of belonging and connection, ensuring vibrant community involvement for years to come.