Photo: V. Ineichen

A Luzern-based foundation provides young people in socially difficult life situations with security and stability. The organization’s name is inspired by bouldering – rock climbing without ropes or a harness – where feelings of stability and security are essential.

The so-called “three-point rule” in bouldering provided the inspiration for the name of a Swiss foundation, “Dreipunkt”, whose mission is to provide stability and security for at-risk youth and young adults. Since 2010, the organization has been supporting young adults between 18 and 28 living in difficult situations. The young people work in two workshops – a furniture shop and a wood-fired bakery – which helps them to transition from school to employment. The organization also offers counselling, personal and school-related education opportunities, and athletics. The Dreipunkt house contains a climbing gym where participants are allowed to learn this trending sport free of charge.

The project targets teens and young adults who are not entitled to further support from Swiss unemployment insurance, and who are referred by social services. Up to 20 youth can work in parallel in the workshops. They spend eight to twelve months working, for example, in the wood-oven bakery, learning practical skills and developing both professional as well as social abilities. “The practically-oriented program offering is particularly good at reaching unstable young people. Creating and producing goods confirms that they are a valuable part of society and the economy. That is strengthening and motivating,” said Silvia Eller, project manager at the Software AG Foundation (SAGST).

The certified organic bakery goods are delivered to regional organic markets; they also sell breads, rolls and more at a weekly farmer’s market. In order to continue using the bakery, it urgently needed to be modernized in 2018. The necessary renovations were supported by SAGST.