Studierendenwerk Dortmund AöR

The Studierendenwerk Dortmund (stwdo) is a public social institution with over 350 employees that has been providing comprehensive support to students at seven universities in Dortmund and the region since 1969. As an independent institution under public law, the Studierendenwerk is subject to the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and has set itself the goal of improving the living conditions of students and promoting student life in a sustainable manner[1][3].

Core offers and services
The Studierendenwerk offers a wide range of services tailored to the needs of students. These include:

• Housing management: Administration and allocation of student dormitories in Dortmund and adjacent university locations, including the continuous expansion and modernization of the residential complexes[3].
• Catering: Operation of canteens and cafeterias with over one million meals offered daily, ensuring a balanced and affordable diet for students[3].
• BAföG advice and processing: Support with social and educational support, in particular with the application and advice on BAföG, accompanied by personal advice in the InfoPoint and extensive online help in simple language[2].
• Daycare center: Operation of the "Kita im Grünen" on the South Campus, which offers student and university-affiliated families childcare options for their children[2].
• Other social offers: Including psychological counseling and a variety of student support services that strengthen the social and academic environment.

Mission and Values
The Studierendenwerk Dortmund sees itself as a central partner in the student living environment and is committed to equal opportunities, social integration and a university community characterized by respect and openness. It attaches particular importance to the accessibility of its services for students from all countries of origin through multilingual support and inclusive communication offers[2].

Sustainability goals and initiatives
Environmental awareness and sustainability are integral components of the Studierendenwerk's operational orientation. This is reflected in the environmentally friendly design of canteens and residential complexes, the promotion of regional and organic food, and the integration of sustainable practices in administration and operations. In addition, the Studierendenwerk Dortmund ensures transparent and ethical business processes, for example through the implementation of a whistleblower system to protect whistleblowers in accordance with EU directives[4].