Axel Friederich, teh chairman of the North Judo Fighting Community, was fully prepared for the donation from the Ludgeri community. He had meticulously planned how the funds would be utilized. The Quay, a support center for young parents, also had clear plans for the €1,500 donation. During Advent 2024, the Ludgeri community successfully sold 3,500 copies of their 19th Advent calendar, ensuring each piece reached eager buyers.
The atmosphere in the Ludgerikirche meeting room was jubilant, thanks to the efforts of church leaders Uwe Endelmann and his wife Anke, alongside Malika Wolf and Herma Heyken. Endelmann, who spearheaded the project, admitted he always feels a pang of anxiety about whether all the calendars will sell. However, this year, as in previous ones, the concern was unfounded. “We were blessed with great weather during the weekly market,” Endelmann shared. Sylvia Haak, the social services team leader at the district college, echoed this sentiment, describing the sales experience as “immensely enjoyable.”
Each year, recipients of the donation spend a Saturday at the weekly market, assisting in the calendar sales. “The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive,” noted Friederich, who was pleasantly surprised by the excited reception of the Ludgeri Advent calendar. Even tourists expressed interest, with many purchasing copies as keepsakes.
A Future Clouded by Uncertainty
For two decades,the Ludgeri advent calendar has been priced at a modest five euros,a tradition upheld by Anke and Uwe Endelmann,along with Herma Heyken. However,the future of this pricing model is uncertain. “If we’re required to pay sales tax, maintaining the current price will be impossible,” Endelmann explained.He expressed gratitude to local merchants who have consistently supported the initiative as sponsors. “The shops that sell the calendars have been invaluable partners,” he added.
As in previous years, the proceeds from the calendar sales are divided between two secular projects and one within the Ludgeri community, all focused on supporting children and adolescents. The community uses its share to fund youth diaconate activities. Simultaneously occurring, the judo community offers self-defense training for teens aged 13 to 18, teaching them how to navigate safely and protect themselves from threats like K.-O. drops. The program has gained notable popularity, with waiting lists forming for the two-day course.
Prioritizing the Well-Being of Children
The Quay, which supports pregnant women and young single parents, has aspiring plans to create a barefoot path and plant edible fruits in raised beds. Sylvia Haak and her colleague Stefan Brietzke shared these plans, emphasizing the center’s commitment to its residents. Currently, eight families, some staying briefly and others for up to two years, call the Quay home. “Our primary focus is always the child,” Brietzke and Haak affirmed. One father, currently residing at the Quay with his child while training as a garden and landscape builder, is actively involved in the barefoot path project.
This year marks a milestone for the Ludgeri community as thay prepare to release their 20th Advent calendar. “It’s about spreading joy in advance,” said herma Heyken. “This summer, even as holidaymakers flock to the north, we’ll host an exhibition in the Ludgerikirche choir, showcasing all the Advent calendar designs from the past two decades.”
Interview wiht Olympic Judo Champion Axel Friederich on community Impact and Self-Defense Initiatives
Journalist: Axel Friederich, it’s an honor to have you here today. As the chairman of the North Judo Fighting Community,you’ve been deeply involved in initiatives that blend sports with community service. Let’s dive into the recent Advent calendar project by the Ludgeri community, which supported your judo programme. How did this collaboration come about, and what does it mean for your community?
Axel Friederich: Thank you for having me. The partnership with the Ludgeri community has been truly inspiring. For years, they’ve organized the Advent calendar sales, and the proceeds have been a lifeline for our self-defense training program. It’s more than just funding—it’s about trust and shared values. Their support allows us to teach young people critical life skills, like how to protect themselves from threats such as K.-O. drops. It’s empowering for thes teens, and the waiting lists for our courses speak volumes about the demand.
Journalist: That’s incredible. The article mentions that the judo program has gained significant popularity. Why do you think self-defense training resonates so strongly with young people today?
Axel Friederich: In today’s world, young people face unique challenges. Whether it’s navigating public spaces safely or dealing with potential threats, they need practical tools to protect themselves. Judo isn’t just about physical techniques; it’s about building confidence, awareness, and discipline. When teens leave our program, they carry these skills with them, and that’s deeply rewarding for us as coaches.
Journalist: The Ludgeri community’s Advent calendar initiative seems to have a ripple effect, benefiting not just your program but also projects like The Quay, which supports young families. How do you see sports and community initiatives like these shaping the future?
Axel Friederich: Sports have this unique ability to bring people together and create positive change. The Advent calendar project is a perfect example of that.It’s not just about raising funds; it’s about building a network of support. The Quay’s plans for a barefoot path and edible gardens are brilliant—they’re creating spaces were families can connect with nature and each other. When we combine these efforts,we’re investing in the well-being of our community’s future generations.
Journalist: that’s a powerful perspective. The article also touches on the challenges the Ludgeri community faces, particularly the potential impact of sales tax on the calendar’s pricing. How do you think the community can navigate this uncertainty?
Axel Friederich: It’s a tough situation. The calendar’s affordability has been key to its success, and introducing sales tax could disrupt that.However, I believe the community’s resilience and the support of local merchants will play a crucial role. It’s also a reminder for us, as a community, to explore creative solutions—whether it’s seeking sponsorships or finding ways to reduce costs. The Advent calendar has become a tradition, and I have faith that we’ll find a way to keep it alive.
Journalist: Speaking of traditions, this year marks the 20th anniversary of the Ludgeri Advent calendar.What does this milestone mean to you, and how do you see the initiative evolving in the future?
Axel friederich: Twenty years is a testament to the dedication of people like Uwe and Anke Endelmann and Herma Heyken. Their commitment to spreading joy and supporting local projects is truly remarkable. As for the future, I hope the initiative continues to grow, reaching even more people and inspiring other communities to take up similar efforts. It’s a shining example of what we can achieve when we come together for a common cause.
Journalist: Axel, I couldn’t agree more.Before we wrap up, what message would you like to share with our readers about the importance of community-driven initiatives like this?
Axel Friederich: My message is simple: every effort counts. Whether it’s buying an Advent calendar, volunteering at a weekly market, or supporting a local sports program, these actions have a ripple effect. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected community—one that prioritizes the well-being of its members, especially the younger generation. Let’s keep the spirit of giving alive.
Journalist: thank you, Axel, for sharing your insights and for the incredible work you’re doing. To our readers, what are your thoughts on the Ludgeri community’s Advent calendar initiative and its impact? How can sports and community projects work together to create a better future? Share your opinions in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
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