Welcome!

Recognizing Strengths • Uncovering Potential • Living Inclusion • Shaping Community

I am an educator based in Berlin with international experience in special education, social therapy and community-based support for people with disabilities.

My professional focus lies in creating learning environments where inclusion is lived, students are seen in their individuality and supported in developing their full potential – regardless of background, abilities or biography.

🎓 Academic background

I hold a B.A. and M.Ed. from Humboldt University of Berlin in History and Philosophy/Ethics as a high school teacher, complemented by Social Therapy studies at the Camphill Academy (USA).  I learned about social, educational, and therapeutic support for people with disabilities. The program followed an interdisciplinary approach that integrated social work, human services, medicine, psychology, nursing, community education, gardening, and art.

🌍 International & practical experience

I have worked in Germany and the United States in schools, community settings and residential programs, including:

• Youth group leader in the Berlin Red Cross Youth – founding and leading a youth group; awarded the JRK Needle of Honor in Bronze in recognition of an exceptionally high level of commitment.

• Conducting career orientation workshops at Studio2B – supporting numerous students in Berlin and Brandenburg in recognizing their individual strengths and potential and exploring suitable career paths.

• Organization of educational projects at wortlaut Sprachwerkstatt – organization, qualitative and quantitative evaluation, and documentation of language education and learning support projects in refugee shelters, family centers, daycare centers, and schools.

• Direct Support Professional at the Triform Camphill Community in New York – supporting young adults with disabilities in their transition to adulthood and working together on the biodynamic, Demeter-certified farm.

• Direct Support Professional at Camphill Communities California – life-sharing with people with disabilities, working together in the biodynamic garden, organizing community activities, and providing home support.

💡 What drives me

How can schools and communities become places where everyone belongs?

This question guides my work – professionally and personally.

✍️ Writing & reflection

Since moving to the USA in 2023, I have been writing regularly on this blog about inclusion, community building, and social therapy. Here, you will find:

• Learnings from my work with people with developmental disabilities

• Insights from my Social Therapy studies at the Camphill Academy

• Numerous photos and experience reports from community life in Camphill communities

• Travel highlights from New York City, Washington, Philadelphia, Boston, Albany, Santa Cruz, San Francisco, Miami, Lewes, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and national parks such as Death Valley and the Grand Canyon

• Over 100 articles documenting more than two years I spent away from home in New York and California

This site is my digital learning and reflection space – a place where I share experiences and insights. It is intended for everyone for whom inclusion is an attitude, not just a tool:

• Teachers and school administrators working with inclusive education

• Students of education or social work

• Parents, educational institutions, and multipliers

• Anyone who sees education as a shared process of growth

I value exchange, reflection, and collaboration – because meaningful education thrives when perspectives are shared. I would be delighted if you find inspiration here, have questions, or would like to get in touch.

Sincerely,

Damon Ruhländer