Group of students posing in front of large red LOVE sculpture in a city plaza, surrounded by tall buildings and red ropes.

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A Warm THANK YOU to those who helped us

… to mark the 50th anniversary of ARSP & Christus Lutheran Church & partner organizations in Camden! On August 29, 2025, we celebrated our 50th year anniversary with the community in Camden. Members of Christus Lutheran Church congregation, current and former US volunteers, partner organizations, Friends of ARSP in the …

Volunteer stories

Camden: A Love Story

Over the course of nearly 50 years “Action Reconciliation Service for Peace” has been sending volunteers to Camden, one of those “forgotten” American cities, known for its violence and poverty. It all began in the 1970s with a young man called Wolfgang, who somehow developed an unexpected, yet strong passion for a city, one, especially …

Person with short blond hair in a black turtleneck, cropped face blurred, posed against a plain white background.

“Cradles to Crayon’s mission is to provide children living in poverty with basic essentials such as clothing, shoes, diapers, school supplies, coats and hygiene items. The ARSP volunteer works in our warehouse, preparing the warehouse for volunteers, leading volunteer groups, and preparing orders. The hardworking young Germans are an invaluable boost to our productivity. The volunteers are self-motivated, hardworking and collegial, always jumping in to assist colleagues when needed while still fulfilling their own tasks. They are always missed in August when they leave, and we are always very grateful to meet our new volunteer in September.”

Michal Smith, Executive Director, Cradles to Crayons Philadelphia