Vienna Honored as an “Outstanding Partner Company” for Professional Inclusion
First Vienna FC 1894 has been honored by Jugend am Werk as an “Outstanding Partner Company” in the field of professional inclusion. The official recognition took place during the first home match at Hohe Warte against SKN St. Pölten, where the certificate was ceremoniously presented.
A special symbol of this lived partnership: the wooden frame of the certificate was crafted by apprentices from the Lorenz-Müller-Gasse training workshop. The award itself thus reflects the inclusive approach that defines this collaboration.
With this honor, Vienna joins a circle of renowned companies recognized by Jugend am Werk for their commitment. These include Wienerberger Österreich, Österreichische Bundesgärten, Elektro Rauhofer, BILLA, Austrian Airlines, VAMED, Bäckerei Felzl, Austria Presse Agentur, and Club 21 des Wiener Hilfswerks.
When Football Meets Inclusion
Before the referee kicks off the match at Hohe Warte, many helping hands ensure that the stadium experience runs smoothly. From greenkeeping to steward services, everyone works together. Since 2022, Vienna has been able to rely on the support of Jugend am Werk. The cooperation operates under the motto “I, too, can take responsibility” and is a heartfelt project for all involved—one that makes inclusion visible.
For more than 80 years, Jugend am Werk has been creating educational and employment opportunities for young people with learning difficulties and disabilities. As part of the cooperation, participants first complete the official Bundesliga steward training and then support the stewarding team on matchdays. Their tasks include answering fan questions and helping ensure compliance with stadium regulations.
A special highlight of the partnership was the joint visit to the Ernst-Happel-Stadion during the international match between Austria and Bosnia-Herzegovina. There, the collaboration between First Vienna FC 1894 and Jugend am Werk was awarded third place at the ÖFB Social Football Award in the Inclusion category.
Jugend am Werk and First Vienna FC 1894 are playing a perfect one-two, benefiting both sides. The project also shows that inclusion is at its best when it is actively lived.
