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Motivation: Compassion

Mitgefühl in Aktion e.V. (MiA) is an independent Buddhist aid organisation. Together with our partner, Buddhist Global Relief, we support development cooperation projects.

We work according to the principles of helping people to help themselves and sustainability, and provide emergency aid in crisis areas. Our main focus is on combating hunger and empowering girls and women through education.

The association is funded exclusively by membership fees and donations, which cover all administrative and transfer costs. Our promise is this: 100% of everything you donate to the aid projects goes directly to the project work on the ground and saves lives.

The association has been recognised as a charitable aid organisation since 2019, is based in Basthorst (SH, Lübeck Register of Associations) and currently has 50 members.

Patron of MiA:

Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi

"Mitgefühl in Aktion e.V. was founded as a sister organization to Buddhist Global Relief, USA, in order to contribute more effectively together to the global fight against injustice and hunger. Together we do much important work to alleviate the suffering of people and give them the opportunity for a meaningful life."

Honorary chairman:

Raimund Hopf

As a Buddhist, it has always been important to me not only to practice for myself, but also to actively put compassion into practice. When Bhikkhu Bodhi agreed to found a European aid organization with us in 2018 based on the model of Buddhist Global Relief, I knew: yes, that's what I want to do.

Board:

Klaus Peter Staudt, Vizechairman

Even though I don't consider myself a practicing Buddhist, I find the idea of putting compassion into action very compelling. I experience the members as seriously committed people with whom I am grateful to work.

Oliver Büttgens, Treasurer

Being aware of the many crises in our world and the human suffering associated with them can make one feel chocked and paralysed. At some point, however, I realised that this doesn't help anyone - not me or others. I became convinced that active involvement in helping is a much more sensible response. With MiA, all help is directly visible.

Chu-Won Sim, Board Member

Through MiA, I have the opportunity to contribute to something good and beneficial alongside a group of dedicated people. The fact that the projects we support focus particularly on girls and young women is an additional source of motivation for me.

Counsel:

Carol Lehmann, Adviser to the board

This is the place where I feel that I can get involved in a hands-on way. Being able to help guard the dignity of people whose life circumstances have been more challenging than my own presently are, is a strong motivation. Being able to use my skills for something meaningful is greatly fulfilling.

Simpert Würfl, Adviser to the board

The idea of Compassion in Action and the associated vision of Bhikkhu Bodhi has deeply inspired me already in the founding phase. Even if objectively we only make a small contribution to alleviate hunger in the world, it is still an essential contribution for those our support reaches and for ourselves!

Staff

Vanessa Zorn, Assistant to the management

What particularly excites me about MiA is the opportunity to provide practical help while promoting compassion and humanity. Making a positive difference is the most meaningful work for me. I look forward to contributing my skills to a dedicated team that is making a direct wholesome impact worldwide.

Katja Meyer-Rachner, Fundraising

By working with MiA, I can turn my compassion into concrete action to support people in need, regardless of their origin. This corresponds to my deep desire to work for a fairer world and to enable sustainable help for self-help.