Crossroads’ building projects in Eastern and Western Germany provide models for relationships between convicts and ‘normal’ citizens.  Let us present two examples:

"Hope for many "

In 1987, ZDF’s (Second German Television) documentary, "Knacki - das war ich mal" (I Used to be a Convict) moved many convicts and their families to ask for a slot in one of the extended family communities. We were unable to accept everyone for our capacities were soon exhausted. Within four weeks, three of the young people we had turned down had committed suicide. The association felt led to expand its residential space.

In 1989, Dr. Rita Süßmuth, President of the German Parliament, laid the foundation for the project "Hoffnung für viele" (Hope for Many), which provides two extended family communities and realized the idea of combining work and home on one property.

Plant Park Scheideweg is integrated into the project.  With a space of over 14,000m² the park includes not just plants but everything pertaining to gardens; two tree nurseries and a shop that sells house plants and gifts, expert advice and planning, as well as complex gardens with ponds.

"Schloss Wendorf" at the Müritz

ZDF’s film "Knacki - das war ich mal" was also shown in East Germany.  The director of a ministry to alcoholics in Mecklenburg contacted Crossroads. Contacts between East Germany and West Germany made us aware of the special problems in East Germany and encouraged us to provide a home for East Germans who had failed in their lives.  In 1991 we bought and renovated Schloß Wendorf, a former estate.  The 'Gefährdetenhilfe Waren gGmbH' was founded as the legal representative and branch of the ministry.

With the assistance of young convicts and addicts, Castle Wendorf was restored to provide two extended family communities, a training centre, space for public youth work and a hotel, which provides rooms and apartments for seminars and vacationers in the beautiful area of the Müritz National Park.  Since vocational training is of great importance in an area with such high unemployment, we provide job training in home economics and garden and landscaping.

With its nine hectares, the park surrounding Castle Wendorf also required restoration.  The garages and stables were abandoned for a comprehensive concept of an estate park open to neighbours and visitors as well as to the inhabitants of the Castle.