Inclusive and creative: The special in Mariahilf opens new horizons!

Inclusive and creative: The special in Mariahilf opens new horizons!

In the middle of the busy hustle and bustle of the 6th district of Vienna, a remarkable place has established itself: "The special". This inclusive concept store not only combines shopping experience with delicious food, but also offers a valuable daily structure for people with mental illnesses and cognitive impairments. The shop was launched by the Commit association about three years ago and initially fought in the 17th district under the name "Pappl" with a low clientele. A move to the more inviting Gumpendorfer Straße 56, with light shop windows and an inviting atmosphere, brought a breath of fresh air and more visibility into the project, such as MeinDzirk reports.

Veronika Brunner, who has been the location manager for a year, ensures that not only the products, but also the people are the focus. "The Special" offers a variety of handmade products, including creative ceramics, bags and cosmetic articles that are manufactured in the daily structures of commit and other social institutions. Particularly noteworthy are the innovative paper mesh products made from old newspapers and tomato glasses.

a holistic concept

The offer in "The Special" goes beyond pure sale. Every day 10 to 12 people are involved who decide in which area they want to work. Because the employees have the freedom to choose between different activities such as in the creative workshop, kitchen or housekeeping. Specialists are at the side of the participants and offer individual support. The Vianobis emphasizes that this framework helps people actively shape their daily design and also promote their own mobility.

The social interaction also includes a regular chess game that takes place on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3 p.m. Board games such as UN or "Humans do not annoy yourself" are also ready to strengthen the community and enable cozy hours.

creativity and community

"The special" not only sees itself as a sales point, but also as a place of exchange and the community. The team aims to increase the visibility in Grätzl and to expand networking with the neighborhood. The opening times are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

In addition, creative workshops and leisure activities also take place in the integration site, which help the participants to rediscover their interests and to develop them personally. The offers range from creative designs to sporting activities, whereby the support from an experienced team is always guaranteed, as Albatros sketched.

“The special” is not just a place where you can buy products, but a lively space that lives inclusion and promotes social exchange. A visit is worthwhile to get to know the creative diversity and the committed people behind it.