Bavarian districts Ostallgäu and Straubing‑Bogen recognize volunteers with honors

The Ostallgäu district in Bavaria will award ten individuals or teams with an honorary badge for outstanding, region‑wide volunteer work. Nominations are accepted until 7 June 2026, and the ceremony is planned for late September or early October 2026. Recipients will also receive the Ostallgäu volunteer card, valid for two years, granting benefits such as free entry to Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles and complimentary ski‑lift rides.

In the neighboring Straubing‑Bogen district, a summer ceremony marked the 10‑year anniversary of the Bavarian volunteer card program. Officials presented new cards to about 30 volunteers, bringing the total issued count to 5 375 (2 056 gold and 3 319 blue). The blue card is valid for three years, while the gold card is lifelong and requires at least 25 years of service. Local leaders praised the volunteers’ contributions across fire services, rescue, sports clubs, social aid, and youth work, and highlighted the network of accepting partners that offer discounts and services to cardholders.