The Clara and Benno Russo Charity

At the Villa Russo, a charity was founded in 1997 by committed citizens of Wernigerode, and with the help of the descendants of Clara and Benno Russo, to counter “social exclusion of all kinds”.

In 2019, the charitable association was re-established as an “international meeting place against forgetting”. Its main aims are to promote the music educational work of the current owner and to organise cultural events that foster international understanding of the National Socialist acts of violence and ensure that the victims are not forgotten. This involves the cultural, social and political education of children, adolescents and adults, to strengthen democratic attitudes. 

Master classes for singers and pianists are already taking place in the Villa Russo. Courses in painting, theatre and dance are being prepared. There are contacts especially with artists from Israel and Palestine. Events are planned for the commemoration of the victims of National Socialism (27 January – International Holocaust Day) and on the date of the 1938 pogrom (9 November), as well as other lectures, discussions, exhibitions and further activities.

All this requires a great deal of commitment on the part of the association, which is run exclusively by volunteers. The house is also in need of significant repairs, and we do require assistance. The work of the association can be supported by donations or membership. Donations are tax deductible. Because it is a non-profit association, donation receipts can be issued upon request.

We hope you might consider supporting us.

Information about membership can be obtained from Peter Lehmann (member of the board) at the following peter.lehmann@online.de.

Account details are as follows:

Clara and Benno Russo House Wernigerode

IBAN: DE19 8105 2000 0901 0657 22

BIC: NOLADE21HRZ