Welcome to KARO e.V.

We give people a voice
For over 30 years, KARO e.V. has been supporting people who have experienced violence and exploitation.

We listen where others look away—and create safe spaces, hope, and new opportunities. Together, we give a voice to those who are often overlooked, and accompany them on their journey toward safety and dignity. Our work begins where help is needed most.

You are not alone.

With heart, courage, and understanding, we accompany those affected on their journey to a new life. To achieve all this, we need people who believe in our mission and support us along the way. Together, we can change what has become unbearable for many.

_{Cathrin Schauer-Kelpin, founder of KARO e.V.}

"Fighting fear with love. For years, KARO e.V. has been wholeheartedly supporting survivors of violence and oppression on their path to a self-determined life. Join us and help."

_{Nina Kronjäger, patron of KARO e.V.}

Violence has many faces

Violence has many faces,
Violence isn’t always loud,
Violence sometimes only becomes visible
when you look more closely.
Violence creeps into your life,
disguised as a cute little sheep,
you unsuspectingly open the door to it,
thinking it’s harmless and well-behaved.

Soon it takes on strange forms,
ones you never expected at all,
and without even realizing it,
you’ve entered a toxic cycle,
you’re part of a cruel game
and would so love to escape,
but to do that, you must wake up
and draw your boundaries with courage.

Rest assured, you’re not alone
on this rocky path;
so many are walking it with you,
out of the rat race.
So many could help you,
you just have to dare,
pool all your strength now
and always look ahead.

There, in the shimmering distance,
you’ll see freedom, peace, and your happiness;
you’ll now shine with love and strength,
and you’ll get your life back, too.
Don’t be afraid and trust yourself,
just take that first step,
we’ll stay by your side
and walk this path with you!

“Perhaps this poem is your wake-up call. Perhaps what’s written here describes your situation exactly, and you can finally save yourself. That’s what I wish for you with all my heart.”

_{Dalia Hagenstedt, victim}