VSE NRW e.V.

Since 1978, VSE NRW e.V. has placed the individual at the centre of its work. Building on the idea of developing alternatives to what was then known as ‘traditional residential care’, VSE NRW e.V. focuses on the individual with their own personal aspirations, abilities, dreams and goals, as well as their contradictions, fears, difficulties and limitations. We are convinced that people can find good solutions for themselves – even in difficult life situations!

This positive view of humanity is also reflected in our organisational structure as a grassroots, democratic and self-governing association. Our staff enjoy a high degree of autonomy and, as members, bear overall responsibility for VSE NRW e.V.

VSE NRW e.V. is a recognised independent provider active in youth welfare, social welfare and social psychiatric care; the association is based in Münster. Organised into three regions – Münster/Münsterland, the Ruhr area/Lower Rhine and the Foster Family Network – we offer a wide range of services regionally through decentralised facilities.

We also see ourselves in the role of advocating for the interests of those we support. In this regard, VSE NRW e.V. is involved in a wide range of regional and supra-regional professional and socio-political contexts and is known for its critical expertise. We place particular importance on dialogue with organisations representing those affected. We are therefore members of the International Society for Educational Assistance (IGfH), the Federal Association for Accepted Drug Work and Humane Drug Policy (akzept e.V.), the Federal Working Group on Assistance for the Homeless (BAG-W), the Federal Professional Association for Unaccompanied Minor Refugees (B-UMF), the Ombudsman’s Office for Youth Welfare in North Rhine-Westphalia (Ombudschaft Jugendhilfe NRW e.V.) and Careleaver e.V.

Our umbrella organisation is DER PARITÄTISCHE.