The Jedleseer-newspaper was founded almost 10 years ago, with the aim of improving networking and social support as well as enhancing local communication opportunities and identity structures. It addresses the needs and interests of a variety of tenant groups of differing ages and social and ethnic backgrounds. The newspaper is also a means of creating awareness of local resources such as: lively hotspots, quiet spaces and leisure facilities. It also provides information relating to local activities, social infrastructure and contact people within the area of Jedlesee. All of the groups involved agree on the leading principle of the mission statement, that the local newspaper is ‘to support an appreciative, positive and respectful cooperation among tenants within the area.’ In the meantime, 26 issues have been successfully published and in 2019 “Jedleseer Zeitung” is going to celebrate its 10-year-anniversary.
Participative projects such as local newspapers and journals face the challenge of representing many different interests in a balanced way. In this case, this is ensured by the use of diverse editorial teams from all of the groups concerned (e. g. child reporters and tenant representatives). They meet regularly and discuss relevant topics in depth and prioritise issues together. Local history, the rich diversity of the neighborhood, language-training, photo puzzle games etc. are some of the aspects of each issue. The key philosophy in decision-making procedures has been a positive and information-led one. Difficult and recurring topics such as dog fouling or inter-generational conflicts are addressed periodically in order to promote positive community behavior for the greater long-term perspective.