The Karin and Walter Blüchert Memorial Foundation held last Sunday, the 20.05.2018 the DOCK2018 – A day without worries in the Hamburg Cruise Center HafenCity . The day event was aimed at people in difficult and vulnerable situations. The guests were treated to a carefree and joyful Pentecost Sunday!
DOCK2018 – A Day Without Worries lived up to its name. Approximately [number missing] people attended. 2,500 guests DOCK2018 saw the arrival of over one hundred volunteers, supporters, and artists. Many people described their hardship and difficult daily lives, yet a balanced atmosphere prevailed at DOCK2018. The attendees perceived it as a safe space where they could express their needs and accept support.
Once the luggage was safely stowed away, the 12,000 square meter grounds, including the Cruise Center, were easier to explore. A range of basic amenities was available for guests. At numerous stations throughout the grounds, guests could sample and dine throughout the day: from welcome drinks and a candy bar to a salad buffet, fresh fruit, and a barbecue tent. The StreetStore was a huge hit: here, guests could browse clothing, accessories, everyday items, and personal care products according to size, style, and preference, just like in a regular store. The wellness area, offering hairdressing, cosmetics, and massage, was also very popular. Medical care was provided by the Johanniter Health Mobile, the Women's Health Team, and the Hamburg Medical Mobile. The on-site showers were also a welcome opportunity for personal hygiene and refreshment. Pastoral care was offered by St. Petri Church in Hamburg, where guests received experienced and confidential counseling. Many guests brought their dogs, which could be checked by a veterinarian and fed upon request.
The second focus of DOCK2018 was entertainment and community. A stage tent was set up in the heart of the event grounds, where artistic acts took place: numerous musicians, presenters, and a DJ ensured a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
Guests were able to express their creativity thanks to an art school and a graffiti artist, whose 30-square-meter wooden wall inspired many to leave their names and thoughts. A basketball court was set up near the quay for those seeking more active pursuits. While the children enjoyed the bouncy castle, some adults relaxed with waffles and coffee in deck chairs or beach chairs by the water.
Because the day was blessed with cheerful sunshine, the Cruise Center provided a welcome respite from the heat. Guests sat together there, engaged in lively conversation or played a game of cards.
Perhaps the most exciting station was the so-called Magic Mirror; a mirror in the welcome tent that took selfies and then printed the souvenir. Many guests were delighted to have their picture taken after a relaxing shower, a new haircut, and fresh clothes. Some women visited the Beauty Station beforehand. With their personalized name badges, a full roll of film in their disposable cameras, and their Polaroid photos, they took the shuttle bus back.
Not only the atmosphere and the memorial wall showed how much the guests enjoyed DOCK2018 – their feedback towards the Karin and Walter Blüchert Memorial Foundation and its supporters was also filled with joy. Everyone involved was able to enjoy a carefree day and take away wonderful memories. The question of whether there would be a DOCK2019 was frequently asked. To this, Chairwoman Magdalena Blüchert replied with a twinkle in her eye: "Do we really have a choice?"„
With DOCK2018 – A day without worries The Karin and Walter Blüchert Memorial Foundation organized an event as part of a series of its own projects, which focus on directly supporting socially disadvantaged people. It will take place on June 2nd. Stop talking. Let's get to work! Instead: The event invites representatives from foundations and associations to contribute to a sustainable network within the charitable sector. Participants will meet for a sailing trip, providing an opportunity for intensive dialogue and the development of partnerships.
Since its founding in November 2016, the foundation has offered immediate and direct aid and support to individuals, but also supports institutions that in turn provide direct aid. Because every person counts.
For general information and research purposes:
www.kwb-stiftung.de
www.kinderlotse.org
The foundation's own events:
www.dock.hamburg
www.anpacken.org