What’s Happening with Icehearts, the organization that Murata has supported with an annual monetary donation since 2021? We inquired about the organization’s activities and interviewed Icehearts team mentor Timo Löppönen.

“Icehearts is doing quite well nationally. Currently, we have activities powered by 68 teams in 13 locations, and we are also running Swedish-speaking AEC activities in cities in the Greater Helsinki area,” Timo says. “The operational model has garnered interest abroad as well. In the Icehearts Europe project launched in spring 2023, proven Icehearts practices are being tested in other European child protection organizations.”

What kind of activities did Icehearts have in Vantaa during 2023?

“For our two oldest teams, the activities were mainly small group initiatives providing individualized support to young people and maintaining regular contact. The main task for an Icehearts educator in their final year is to guide the youth towards independence and adulthood. Help was needed and provided for various matters related to agencies and housing issues. Overall, things are going quite well for older youth. Nelli was able to bring a good number of young people along for her team’s last summer camp,” Timo says. “Tommy’s, Mikko’s, and Anu’s teams played in league competitions organized by their respective sports associations. Tommy’s boys and Anu’s girls played floorball while Mikko’s boys played soccer. In addition to league games and sport-specific training sessions, the teams engaged in various activities across different sports throughout the year—everything from bowling to sausage grilling was part of our shared experiences. The teams also camped out traditionally and enjoyed classic Icehearts-style adventures.”

What plans do you have for 2024?

Timo mentions that more detailed plans are currently being developed. “Recreational activities and games will continue as before within league competitions organized by sports associations. For summer camps, reservations have already been made at Pelli, along with planned excursions and other activities. In younger age group teams, we will experiment with team sports alongside afternoon programs; Jenni’s team will try floorball while Samuel’s boys will start playing soccer.”

How important is corporate support for Icehearts’ operations?

“The support from the City of Vantaa is the backbone of our basic operations and vital for our existence; alongside that, corporate support is extremely important. Corporate backing enables memorable game trips, team meals, camps, equipment purchases, and excursions for children and young people involved in our program—all those things that add flavor to everyday life! In addition to direct financial support from companies, we also receive other contributions like snacks or sports equipment. Corporate support allows educators to focus on what matters most: the children,” emphasizes Timo. “I especially value long-term partnerships with companies like Murata represents; planning and anticipating operations becomes significantly easier when collaboration partners are known in advance.”

Thanks to Timo Löppönen for the interview, and wishing Icehearts a productive continuation into 2024!

Read more about Icehearts