Everything you need to know about the Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (Workers’ Samaritan Association – ASB)

Author name: Admin Publication date: 2025-07-15 Article category: organizations and associations

Everything you need to know about Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB)

The Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund, commonly known as ASB, is one of Germany’s oldest and most important humanitarian and service organizations. Its roots go back to 1888, when a group of workers in Berlin came together to establish an organization aimed at providing first aid at workplaces. Since then, ASB has grown into a broad social institution that supports people in need across the country.

Principles and values
ASB is built on core values such as humanity, solidarity, self-help, and social responsibility. The organization’s motto, “We help here and now,” sums up its mission: providing direct and immediate support to anyone in need—without discrimination based on religion, ethnicity, or social background.

Fields of work and services
ASB provides a wide range of services that directly affect people’s lives, including:

Emergency and ambulance services: ASB operates fully equipped ambulance teams, helps secure major events, and provides 24/7 medical transport services.

Elderly care: This includes home care, nursing homes, daily-life assistance, and leisure/social support programs to ensure older people can live with dignity and as independently as possible.

First-aid training: ASB is one of Germany’s leading providers of first-aid courses, offering training for individuals, companies, and schools.

Everyday assistance services: Such as meal delivery, patient transport, and home emergency call systems, ensuring safety and comfort for people living alone.

Support for refugees and migrants: ASB runs reception centers and provides social and legal counseling, language courses, and integration programs to help refugees start a new life.

Support for people with disabilities: It offers rehabilitation programs, support for social participation, and services that help integrate people with disabilities into society and the labor market.

International aid: ASB delivers emergency assistance in disaster areas worldwide by sending relief teams and providing food and medical supplies.

Organization and reach
ASB includes more than 16 regional associations and over 200 local branches across Germany. The organization employs more than 40,000 staff members and is supported by around 20,000 volunteers. This wide structure enables rapid intervention and effective response nationwide.

Funding
ASB is funded through donations, membership fees, revenue from services provided, and government support. These diverse sources help maintain sustainability and independence, ensuring assistance reaches those who need it most.

Jobs and volunteering
ASB is an ideal destination for those seeking work in social and humanitarian fields—whether in healthcare, emergency services, training, or administration. It also offers broad volunteering opportunities in first aid, elderly support, refugee assistance, or relief campaigns.
Working or volunteering with ASB gives individuals a real chance to make a direct impact on others’ lives while developing personal and social skills.

Social role
ASB plays a vital role in supporting German society by providing health and social services that strengthen safety and social cohesion. The organization embodies the spirit of help and solidarity and promotes cooperation and shared responsibility in facing everyday challenges.

The Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund is a living symbol of committed and effective humanitarian work in Germany. Thanks to its diverse services and broad presence, it has become a trusted refuge for anyone in need of medical, social, or humanitarian support. If you are looking for an organization driven by solidarity and humanity, you will find in ASB a strong partner—and a genuine opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives.


ـ* The writing and editorial team on the website strives to provide accurate information through extensive research and consultation of multiple sources when preparing articles. However, some errors may occur or certain information may be unconfirmed. Please consider the information as a preliminary reference and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.

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