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Thuringia’s cultural heroes vie for ‘Volunteer of the Year’ title

From reviving a theater to preserving history, these volunteers prove passion can reshape a community. Now, Thuringia will choose its champion—will it be art or heritage?

This image looks like an edited photo in which I can see historical monuments, trees, group of...
This image looks like an edited photo in which I can see historical monuments, trees, group of people, board, sculptures, rocks and the sky.

Thuringia’s cultural heroes vie for ‘Volunteer of the Year’ title

Two dedicated volunteers from Thuringia have been named finalists for the prestigious 'Thuringian of the Year' award. Dr. Axel Weiß from Meiningen and Karin Häntzschel from Bauerbach were both previously recognised as 'Thuringian of the Month' by the Thuringian Volunteer Foundation and MDR THURINGEN. Their work in arts and culture preservation has now earned them a chance at the top honour, backed by the Thüringer Ministerium für Arbeit, Soziales, Gesundheit, Frauen und Familie.

Dr. Axel Weiß leads Kulturbühne Meiningen, a volunteer-run arts initiative that has transformed a local space into a thriving performance venue. Under his direction, the group not only stages its own productions but also welcomes guest performances, enriching Meiningen’s cultural scene.

The winner of 'Thuringian of the Year' will be decided by public vote. Both finalists have already made a lasting impact through their volunteer work, with Weiß expanding access to the arts and Häntzschel preserving local history. The prize money will further support their ongoing projects in Thuringia.

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