Ruth Overbeck de Sumi from Bocholt honoured with the Federal Cross of Merit

On 22 January 2025, District Administrator Dr Kai Zwicker and Mayor Thomas Kerkhoff honoured Ruth Overbeck de Sumi from Bocholt with the Cross of Merit on Ribbon in Bocholt. She received the award for her exceptional commitment in the social sector, in particular for founding the organisation "Vamos Juntos", which, among other things, supports shoeshine boys and their families in La Paz (Bolivia).

District Administrator Zwicker emphasised how Overbeck de Sumi has been improving the living conditions of the poorest for over two decades, creating educational opportunities and combating discrimination. "Their commitment impressively demonstrates that citizens can provide indispensable services to others through personal commitment."

In addition to her work in Bolivia, Overbeck de Sumi is building bridges between Germany and Bolivia, for example through volunteer services and exchange programmes. During the pandemic, she continued her work despite the difficult conditions.

Zwicker concluded with the words: "Through your work, you are a role model for solidarity and civic engagement." He also thanked her family for their support and conveyed greetings from NRW Minister President Hendrik Wüst and District President Andreas Bothe.

Kerkhoff: Overbeck de Sumi is a role model for others

Mayor Thomas Kerkhoff also paid tribute to Ruth Overbeck de Sumi's extraordinary commitment, which goes "far beyond ordinary voluntary work". Her commitment to the shoeshine boys in Bolivia is an impressive example of empathy and humanity, he said. He quoted the writer and civil rights activist Maya Angelou: "People will never forget how you made them feel."

Kerkhoff emphasised that Mrs Overbeck de Sumi not only gave hope in Bolivia, but also acted as a role model at home in Bocholt.

Ruth Overbeck de Sumi thanked everyone who supported her initiative, especially her parents.

An overview of all Bocholters who have received special awards for their social and voluntary work can be found on the city's website at www.bocholt.de/ehrungen.