Department of Germanic Languages & Literatures University of Toronto
- Bike Bridge (Freiburg & Leipzig!)
Bike Bridge is an organization that promotes social inclusion and empowerment through cycling. Its mission is to create community connections and foster integration by offering programs that build skills, confidence, and friendships on two wheels. Their key initiatives include:
Bike & Belong: This flagship program is tailored to empower women with migrant or refugee backgrounds by teaching them how to cycle. Beyond learning practical bike skills, participants engage in a supportive, intercultural community, fostering mutual understanding and confidence.
Radeln ohne Alter (“Cycling Without Age”): This initiative enables older adults, particularly those with mobilitychallenges, to enjoy the outdoors and explore Freiburg by bike. Using specially designed rickshaws, volunteers offer rides to seniors, promoting joy, inclusion, and intergenerational connection.
Bike Café: A regular meet–up space for cycling enthusiasts and community members. The café combines social interaction with cycling education and repair workshops, creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for all participants.Interning with Bike Bridge offers the opportunity to support these programs directly, engage with diverse communities,and promote sustainable mobility and social integration. Whether assisting with event coordination, organizing workshops, or supporting program participants, students will gain valuable skills and meaningful insights into community–based initiatives.
Check out their website and Instagram. - Foodsharing Café
The Foodsharing Café is a volunteer–run initiative dedicated to combating food waste while raising awareness about sustainable consumption. The café rescues surplus food and serves it to the community. Interns will support the café’s operations, manage rescued food logistics, and engage with visitors to promote eco–conscious habits.
Check out their website, Instagram and this video. - Freiburger Tafel e.V.
Freiburger Tafel e.V. is a non–profit organization committed to reducing food waste and fighting food insecurity. By redistributing surplus food from local businesses to individuals and families in need, the Tafel addresses environmental sustainability and social responsibility. Interns will assist in operations such as coordinating food distribution, liaising with local partners, and engaging with the Freiburg community to ensure everyone has access to essential resources.
Check out their website. - Haus des Engagements
Haus des Engagements (House of Engagement) is a hub for non–profit organizations and social initiatives in Freiburg. This collaborative workspace supports projects focused on sustainability, social justice, and community development. Interns will have the chance to work closely with various member organizations, assist in event coordination, and contribute to administrative and outreach activities, gaining exposure to a dynamic network of change makers.
Check out their website and Instagram. - zusammen leben e.V.
zusammen leben e.V. fosters inclusion and intercultural exchange in Freiburg by creating spaces for dialogue and community–building. Their programs connect people from diverse backgrounds through workshops, cultural events, and social initiatives. Interns will help organize events, assist at the Zuka Soli Café, facilitate community activities, and promote collaboration among participants, making a direct impact on social integration and cohesion.
Check out their website and Instagram.
Each of these organizations provides a unique opportunity to make a difference, develop valuable skills, and engage with local and global communities.