Stefanie von Laer: Federal Cross of Merit for 30 years of volunteer work!

Stefanie von Laer: Federal Cross of Merit for 30 years of volunteer work!

In Tieplitz, a small community in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, a very special volunteer position will be honored on September 17, 2025: Stefanie von Laer, a committed 71-year-old, will receive the Federal Cross of Merit on ribbon. The Federal Cross of Merit is awarded by Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig and is a highly valued award for people who distinguish themselves in society. Manuela Schwesig will carry out the honor personally and thereby recognize the valuable work of von Laer, who has been working on a voluntary basis for many years.

Stefanie von Laer has been involved in her community in many ways over the last three decades. From 1995 to 2015 she organized the annual Tieplitz summer concerts, which attracted over 100 listeners. Not only is her passion for music reflected in these concerts, she also plans to make more music and play the piano again. In addition, she led the Johanniter-Hilfsgemeinschaft for ten years and initiated the partnership between Bures sur Yvette in France and Güstrow. Regardless of their commitment, this partnership gained its own momentum and is still running successfully today.

A heart for the church

Stefanie von Laer is not just a cultural enrichment; Her commitment to the church is also remarkable. She founded the organ association “Historical Orgel zu Ruchow” and promoted the restoration of the organs in the Ruchow Church. Every year she organizes concerts in this church and has drawn up proposals for the renovation of the altar and the medieval wall paintings. “Supporting others makes me happy and grateful,” she says, demonstrating her deep belief in the importance of volunteering.

In a society in which voluntary commitment is increasingly in demand, the importance of activists like Stefanie von Laer is recognized, as is the importance of various initiatives across the country. As part of the Federal Government's National Engagement Strategy, attempts are being made to create a sustainable environment for volunteer work. One example is the “Hotel Silber Learning and Memorial Site” initiative in Stuttgart, which helps keep the memory of historical events alive. This development shows that social participation and strengthening community spirit are crucial issues of our time.

A call for support

Stefanie von Laer sees her award not only as a personal highlight, but also as a conclusion to 30 years of full commitment. She emphasizes the need to motivate young people to do voluntary work and would like to see more support for volunteers. “We need more offers and incentives so that even more people get involved,” is their appeal.

With her positive attitude and vision to inspire others to volunteer, Stefanie von Laer remains an inspiring role model in her community. Her belief in God and the joy in her work are what drive and motivate her. “A few weeks ago I didn’t think about ever quitting,” she says with a smile, showing that her commitment is far from over.

The organ association is still looking for new members and cordially invites anyone interested to become part of this special project. “Together we can achieve a lot and enrich our culture,” adds von Laer.