Press release
July 10, 2026, No. 111
A listening ear, a helping hand: Family mentors wanted in the district
Free training prepares volunteers to support families—you can join at any time
Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen District. The Family Support Office of the Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen District Administration is looking for dedicated individuals who would like to volunteer as family mentors to support families in the district. We are looking for women and men who are willing to support families facing challenging life situations by offering their time, attention, and practical assistance in everyday life.
Many families occasionally reach their breaking point—for example, after a move, when a child is born, during a difficult family situation, or when relatives and friends aren’t available to help out. Family mentors regularly give these families their time, listen to them, play with the children, or give parents a few hours to catch their breath. In doing so, they provide valuable support on an equal footing, without replacing professional caregivers.
The situation of one family illustrates just how helpful this program can be: After moving to the county, the family lacked a support network. Since then, a family mentor has been visiting them once a week, spending time with the older child and giving the mother some much-needed breathing room. Above all, however, she helps them feel that they are not alone in facing the challenges of everyday life.
“It’s often the small, thoughtful gestures that make the biggest difference for a family,” says Bianca Ludwig of the Center for Family Support. “That’s exactly what our mentors give: time, attention, and the feeling that they’re not alone.”
Who Can Become a Family Mentor
No specific professional or educational background is required to volunteer. Anyone who enjoys working with families, is reliable, and has some time to spare can become a family mentor. All volunteers are thoroughly prepared for their role through a free training program consisting of six modules. The training is based on the proven curriculum of the Bavarian Family Mentor Network and provides practical, hands-on knowledge necessary for supporting families.
You can join the program at any time of the year. Those interested can contact the Family Support Office at any time for more information and to register. Family mentors are active at several locations throughout the county.
Interested or have questions? Family Support Office , Department of Youth and Family Affairs, Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen District Office – Email: familienfoerderung@lra-toelz.de. Find nearby locations at www.lra-toelz.de → search for“Familienpaten.”
Sabine Schmid
Press spokeswoman
Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen District Office