Bayer 04 lend a helping hand at Wildpark Reuschenberg

The 'Wir(04)helfen' day gives the club the opportunity to give something back to Leverkusen. For a fourth time, Bayer 04 spent a day working at a community facility. After previous years getting the playground in Rheindorf, a road traffic practice circuit and a day nursery in Opladen plus a children's home in Quettingen ship shape again, this time renovation work at the Reuschenberg wildlife park was on the agenda. The 60,000 square metre area houses over 80 different types of wild and domestic animals – over 200 animals can be seen at the extensive facility. The park was closed on Wednesday for redevelopment and modification.

The squad reduced by international commitments including Leon Bailey, Karim Bellarabi and the Bender twins worked alongside Bayer 04 staff at the wildlife park to install new bike stands, repair benches and repaint tables and walls. On top of that, the gutters at the entrance were cleaned out to prevent flooding. The otters in the park could enjoy their newly redesigned enclosure – another was set up for three new Bennett kangaroos. The young animals have not been named yet. Lion Club members are welcome to get involved in naming the animals by sending in their suggestions (information to follow in the Lions Club newspaper). 
 

After the job was completed, all involved were happy with the results – with the wildlife park shining like new. Heiko Herrlich was also enthusiastic: "It felt a bit like one of our team building sessions and it produced a team spirit – with the feeling of having achieved something together,"said the 46-year-old. "We've all been to the wildlife park as a child or as an adult. It's very beautiful here – including the playground. I'm sure to come back here with my children."