Musical reading in Memmingen: Volunteer work duly recognized!
Memmingen honored volunteer card holders with a musical reading by Michael Kobr and pianist Winkler on December 4th, 2025.

Musical reading in Memmingen: Volunteer work duly recognized!
Around 110 holders of the Bavarian Volunteer Card came together in Memmingen today for a very special musical reading. The event was organized by the city of Memmingen to thank the committed volunteers. Mayor Margareta Böckh welcomed the guests to the Kreuzherrnsaal and recognized the exemplary commitment of almost 600 holders of the volunteer card. “You are making an invaluable contribution to our community,” she emphasized in her speech.
There was an entertaining program for the guests with best-selling author Michael Kobr, who read from his gripping crime novel “Shadows over Sømarken” and provided insights into the inner life of his inspector with variable intonation and lively dialects. Stephan Winkler's piano accompaniment provided the appropriate musical accompaniment and accompanied the reading with sensitive melodies. At the end of the program, the audience was warmed up to the Advent season with contemplative, Christmassy sounds.
A token of thanks
The musical reading is a special way to pay respect to the holders of the Bavarian Volunteer Card, which is awarded for outstanding volunteer work. This card not only offers recognition, but also various benefits and discounts that reward volunteer work. Information about the special discounts can be found on the city of Memmingen's homepage.
The Bavarian volunteer card has two versions: the blue one, which is valid for a limited period of three years, and the gold one, which is valid for an unlimited period. For the blue card, candidates must be at least 16 years old and have been actively involved in volunteer work for at least two years. Minimum weekly hours or commitment in various areas are required, such as disaster control or the volunteer fire department. The golden card even requires a commitment of at least 25 years.
This event not only expresses appreciation for volunteer work, but also highlights the importance of volunteer work in our society. We would like to thank everyone who works for others in Memmingen and ensures a strong sense of togetherness! Further information about the Bavarian Volunteer Card can be found on the website Volunteering in Bavaria to find.