The Voluntary Cultural Year in Germany
Community and National Service
This Center for Social Development Civic Service Research Fellows study investigated the characteristics and motivations of youth who serve in Germany’s voluntary cultural year. In particular, we explored the role of social training and the presence of role models in influencing youths’ perceptions of civic service and cultural institutions. Results suggest that the voluntary cultural year may have positive impacts on participating adolescents, enhancing social and cultural competence, supporting cultural institutions, providing exposure to career options and supporting a stronger relationship with cultural institutions and their impact on social development.
Funding Partner: Ford Foundation
Principal Investigator
Gesa Birnkraut
2002-2004 CSD Research Fellow
Contact
Lissa Johnson
CSD Associate Director; Director of Administration and Research;
Co-Director Financial Capability and Asset Building
- Email: ejohnson@wustl.edu