Gera Zoo's Unique Shift Change Day Promotes Inclusion
On Thursday, September 25, 2025, a unique event unfolded at Gera Zoo. The Shift Change action day brought together 4,800 people nationwide, aiming to promote inclusion and understanding among various workplaces. The event, organized by gastromatic, saw employees and exchange partners swap roles for a day.
Kathleen Lässig, typically found at Aga organic farm, traded places with a zoo employee. She spent the day helping with the new fence for the Owambo goats' stall. Meanwhile, Markus Thümmler, usually a handyman at Martinsgrund, discovered the Lebenshilfe greenhouse in Aga. He assisted with daily plant care tasks, gaining new insights into this aspect of farming.
The Shift Change action day involved 2,700 employees from workshops and 2,100 exchange partners from companies. It was a nationwide news event, with participants logging in online on November 5, 2025. The goal was to reduce fears, open new perspectives, and strengthen the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace.
Gera's mayor, Kurt Dannenberg, welcomed the Shift Change action day, highlighting its social significance. The event provided an opportunity for participants to learn about different work environments, fostering understanding and inclusion. Through such initiatives, the community aims to create a more inclusive and empathetic society.
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