FLY & HELP inspires hope and transformation for places int the world, where education is more a privilege rather than a right. Founded by Reiner Meutsch, a former managing partner of the tour operator Berge & Meer, this foundation is on a mission to make education accessible to children in developing countries.
The Genesis of a Dream
Reiner Meutsch’s journey began as an adventure, a fulfillment of a lifelong dream to fly around the world in a small plane. But it was not just about the thrill of flying; it was about making a difference. In January 2010, Meutsch took off on a global journey, visiting and supporting aid projects in countries like Ghana, Rwanda, India, Indonesia, and Brazil. This was the catalyst for the creation of the Reiner Meutsch Foundation FLY & HELP in 2009.
© Reiner Meutsch Stiftung FLY & HELP 2023
A Mission Rooted in Empathy
Having traveled extensively during his professional career, Meutsch was acutely aware of the disparities that exist in many tourist destinations. “Many dream destinations do not offer dream working and living conditions to the locals,” he says. This realization was particularly poignant when it came to children who lacked access to education. It was this gap that FLY & HELP aimed to bridge.
The Core Objective: Promoting Education
The primary focus of FLY & HELP is to advance education by building new schools in developing countries. The initial five projects undertaken during Meutsch’s global circumnavigation were just the beginning. To date, the foundation has realized more than 650 school projects with a total funding of approximately 34 million Euros. These new buildings have enabled thousands of children in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to attend school, laying the foundation for a future where they can make their own decisions and plan for themselves.
The Mechanics: 100% Impact
One of the most compelling aspects of FLY & HELP is its commitment to ensuring that every cent of the donations it receives goes directly into its educational projects. The administrative costs are entirely covered by Reiner Meutsch and sponsors, ensuring that 100% of all donations are invested in creating a meaningful impact.
© Reiner Meutsch Stiftung FLY & HELP 2023
The work of FLY & HELP serves as a classic example of the ripple effect. Each school that is built becomes a hub of community development. The children who attend these schools receive not just an education but a renewed sense of purpose and a vision for what they can achieve. As these children grow up to become educated, empowered adults, they, in turn, become agents of change, uplifting their communities and, by extension, the world.
FLY & HELP is a movement aimed at leveling the playing field and giving every child, regardless of their circumstances, a fair shot at a bright future. It shows us that when it comes to making a difference, every little bit counts, and that education is the most potent tool we have in building a better world.
Find out more about FLY & HELP projects on the Website fly-and-help.de