Since 1998, The Selfhelp Home has partnered with the Berlin-based ARSP (Action Reconciliation Service for Peace), which works to bridge the gap between the lost older Jewish German generation and the youth in Germany while building trusting relationships and healing painful, historic wounds.
Each year, The Selfhelp Home is host to a young German intern for a one-year internship who becomes an integral part of the Selfhelp family, helping residents and warming hearts. In September 2025 we welcomed our 26th intern, Karl Bick from Osnabrück, Germany to our Selfhelp family.
Where in Germany are you from? What is your hometown like?
I am from a small town in Lower Saxony called Osnabrück, which is about two hours from Hamburg.
It’s a quiet place known for its scenic hiking routes. Some might know it because of its role in the Thirty Years’ War, which ended through several peace treaties signed in Osnabrück. In Germany, it is therefore known as the “City of Peace.”
What are your interests and hobbies?
I’ve been part of a drama club since I was 11 years old, so I’m very interested in both classical and contemporary theatre. Acting in theatre productions has become a very important hobby of mine.
Tell us a little bit about your family. What do your parents do?
I have a 16-year-old brother who is a sophomore in high school, and a 23-year-old sister who studies Management at the University of Osnabrück. My father is a history teacher at a high school, and my mother works in design.
Have you been to America before? Where? What did you think of it?
I’ve been to New York once and was fascinated by it. It goes without saying that the city feels like its own universe and has a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Overall, I’m very interested in the USA because of its role in shaping Western culture for decades. For many, it represents the land of hopes and dreams—while at the same time, it’s a country of extremes, including both immeasurable wealth and poverty.
What are you looking forward to about being in Chicago?
From what I’ve seen so far, and from what everyone I’ve spoken to has said, Chicago seems to be a culturally rich city. I’m especially looking forward to visiting some of the theaters. It’s also great to be right by Lake Michigan, especially in the summer. The architecture downtown is supposedly unique too, and I hope to explore more of it over the year. Overall, I think it will be really interesting to spend a full year here and get to know the city as well as possible.
What are you looking forward to about being at Selfhelp Home?
What I’m most looking forward to is spending time with the residents and getting to know them and their stories. I often feel that elderly people aren’t listened to enough, even though they have so much wisdom to share once you actually start listening.
What is your first impression so far of Selfhelp?
My first impression of Selfhelp is that the atmosphere among the residents is very welcoming. I also feel that the residents and the staff have a great relationship with one another. I like that there are many programs and activities for the residents to engage in, encouraging everyone to participate in the community and pursue their interests.