The Zirl Parent-Child Centre (EKIZ) is facing a decisive turning point:

The current lease expires on 31 August 2025 and will not be renewed as the landlord requires the premises for their own use.

Over the past 15 years, the EKIZ has established itself as a vital hub for families, offering a wide range of programmes for early childhood development and social interaction.

To secure a new location, additional funds are urgently needed for the move, fitting out and financing of the premises.

Together, we can ensure that the EKIZ remains a place of encounter and support in the future. Every contribution counts!

Association activities – Introducing EKIZ Zirl!

EKIZ Zirl has been supporting families in various life situations for over 15 years. It is a place for socialising and learning for (expectant) parents, single parents, grandparents and children of all ages.We offer a space for meeting and exchange that promotes free, self-directed play, early childhood support from birth to school age, and parental education.

Our diverse range of services extends from antenatal classes and a counselling service for parents to special programmes for grandparents.

Our Managing Director, Martina Sterner, leads the organisation, coordinates activities with her team – most of whom are volunteers – and fosters cooperation between parents, children and course leaders to ensure the smooth running of all courses, workshops, talks and open meetings.

The association’s board, led by Chairman Martin Pardeller and Treasurer Mag. Agnes Preishuber, represents the association externally, manages financial matters and makes strategic decisions in line with the association’s objectives.

The EKIZ’s services are primarily aimed at (expectant) parents, children and families, but are increasingly attracting the attention of older people, particularly grandparents. It thus covers almost the entire age range from 0 to 99 years and appeals to people from all income groups and educational backgrounds. In terms of family status, our target group is diverse: it includes married couples and couples with one or more children, as well as single mothers and fathers. Both women and men make use of the services, although women currently still make up the majority.

A new venue for the association is urgently needed

After more than ten years, our existing lease will expire on 31 August 2025 and will not be renewed due to the landlord’s own use of the premises. Until now, the EKIZ has not had to pay rent, only operating and utility costs (electricity, water, etc.). The search for a new location has proved extremely difficult.

The properties currently available are either in dire need of renovation, unsuitable due to their size or facilities, or too expensive. We have now found a suitable location that meets our requirements and the authorities’ conditions. It would also be easily accessible, with direct links to public transport and parking facilities. The premises offer good ceiling height for games and exercise classes, have sufficient toilet facilities and a kitchen, and are accessible. Unfortunately, we are not receiving any funding from the local council or the county for the move or the premises, so we are asking for your support in this way.