BT Integration e.V. is a non-profit association based in Bergheim and the surrounding area.
We support people with a migration background – children, young people and adults – in better understanding life in Germany, finding their way in new structures and building their place in society.
What we do
Our work focuses on the integration of migrants through:
- language development – additional language courses and learning groups for children and adults;
- education and learning support – after-school activities, homework support and thematic learning or creative groups;
- cultural exchange and shared leisure time – a choir for adults, theatre projects, family celebrations and themed events;
- discovering Germany and Europe – trips and excursions that help participants better understand history, culture and everyday life;
- strengthening everyday independence – including through a planned financial literacy club for people with a migration background.
We combine learning, support and real encounters so that people not only “know the rules”, but also feel part of the local community.
How it all started
The initiative originally grew around children and families with a migration background. The first activities were bilingual groups for children: music, creative projects, games and small theatre performances in German and Russian (and other family languages).
Over time it became clear that support is needed not only for children, but also for their parents and other adult migrants:
questions of language, finances, navigating systems and taking part in social life affect the whole family.
Today, BT Integration e.V. has grown into an association that offers programmes for different age groups – from preschool children to adults.
Who we work for
Our activities are aimed at:
- children and school-age pupils from migrant families who need additional support with learning and with the German language;
- parents and adult migrants who want to better understand the education and social systems, financial issues and everyday rules in Germany;
- families as a whole, who value having a safe space for communication, celebrations and joint participation in city life.
Our approach
Our work is based on several principles:
- Integration through participation. We create situations in which children and adults can try new things, take responsibility, perform and take part in events and projects.
- Combining language and content. Language courses and practical activities are always linked to real-life topics: school, work, finances, health, communication with authorities and institutions.
- Family- and intergenerational approach. We believe it is important not only to work with individual children or adults, but with families as a whole – through shared celebrations, theatre projects, excursions and other formats.
- Openness to cooperation. We work at different locations and in partnership with other organisations so that our offers are close to the people and complement the existing infrastructure.
Our focus areas
At present, BT Integration e.V. is developing several focus areas:
- after-school activities and learning support for children;
- language groups and courses for children and adults;
- cultural and musical projects, including a choir for adults;
- family and festive events, including celebrations with Nikolaus/Santa and theatre performances involving migrant families;
- educational trips and excursions within Germany and to other countries;
- the development of a financial literacy club and online learning formats for people with a migration background.
As the association develops, we plan to further expand these areas and to create new formats whenever we see a real need among our participants.