"We usually get upset about little things": This is how the "Bufdi" service changed Xaver's life
Created: 08/12/2022, 16:00
The insight into social work has changed Xaver Wochermaier's view of things.
© Arbeiterwohlfahrt
After graduating from school, Xaver Wochermaier (17) only knew what he didn't want: to go to school any longer.
He ventured his first step into the world of work as "Bufdi" in the social service of the district association of workers' welfare in Munich (AWO).
District
- “I can still remember the first day clearly.
It was a Friday,” says Xaver Wochermaier.
who comes from Herrsching.
A year ago, his federal voluntary service (Bufdi) began at the AWO district association.
With a coffee, a long conversation and a visit to an AWO suit.
"A great first day," says Xaver.
He had a bit of respect for this jump into cold water.
He quickly feels at home
After graduating from school, the then 16-year-old had no real plan as to how to proceed.
Then, in a conversation with my aunt, the idea was born to first do a year in the Federal Volunteer Service and then to think about the future in peace and quiet during this time.
A few clicks on the web and Xaver was in the picture.
In the end, he chose the AWO district association in Munich-Land, a choice he would not regret.
Xaver quickly felt at home in the association.
He got involved in organizing events, actively helped with the move and renovation and gained a deep insight into the social work that the association does.
Formative impressions in the homeless shelter
"I won't forget how I stood in a homeless shelter for the first time," says Xaver.
As a teenager growing up in a supportive family, homelessness was something that wasn't part of his world.
"It was an incredibly strong experience to see what's going on in a rich city like Munich," he says.
It was only then that he was able to properly assess his privileges and realized how well off he was.
"It's the little things that we get upset about."
Earned your first money
He also earned his first money with his work as Bufdi.
Another important experience he wouldn't want to miss: “I had my own account for the first time.
And I look at this account, and there's real money in there.
I worked and can afford something.
A good feeling.” The lion's share went for the driver's license, of which Xaver is very proud.
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Turning maneuver failed
He only finds it a pity that the seminar days, which take place regularly during the federal voluntary service, were only offered online because of Corona.
“The last seminar in June took place face-to-face.
That's when I realized how sad it is that I've only just met the other Bufdis."
career choice is clear
Of course there were days when work wasn't pure joy, Xaver openly admits.
But overall I had fun and learned a lot.
That's why he can only recommend the Federal Volunteer Service.
And the question of how to proceed has also been clarified: "I'm learning a trade.
I want to be a carpenter.
Specialists are in demand on the market.
And if I feel like it, I can still study.”
