One year of StartWien Hub: Integration work of tomorrow
Following a successful first year as a pilot project, the StartWien Hub demonstrates how integration in Vienna can succeed today and tomorrow: holistically, in a coordinated manner, and closely aligned with the real-life situations of newly arrived immigrants and families. This innovative program is made possible by funding from the City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Integration and Diversity (MA 17) .
During a visit by Deputy Mayor Bettina Emmerling and the Head of the Department for Integration and Diversity of the City of Vienna, Theodora Manolakos , this all-in-one approach was impressively demonstrated. The tour led through the childcare facilities, the classrooms, and the counseling areas – to the places where integration takes place every day.
The childcare center had a lively, focused atmosphere. Especially during the settling-in period, the youngest children were able to arrive playfully, build initial relationships, and receive language stimulation, while their parents simultaneously participated in German courses. Early childhood language development, security, and relationship building are intertwined here from the very beginning, giving families a good start.
The close integration of the various services was also evident in the classrooms. Adult participants learned German, while others simultaneously received advice on work, housing, health, or school. All the most important integration concerns of the participants can be addressed on-site, not outside, but within the project and in one location – a significant difference from traditional, fragmented services.
During the concluding discussion, the deputy mayor gained insight into the concept, results, and impact of the project. It became clear that when language courses, counseling, childcare, orientation, and labor market support are offered simultaneously and from a single source, both participants and the receiving system benefit. Pathways are shortened, overload is avoided and integration becomes faster, more sustainable, and more effective.
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