International Youth Cooperation Suomi

IYC Suomi (International Youth Cooperation Suomi ry) is a youth-led NGO based in Espoo and active across the Helsinki metropolitan area. Since 2015 we have been part of the International Youth Cooperation network, a European organisation that promotes a culture of responsibility and solidarity among young people.Our mission is to encourage young people to “live for others”: to use their time, talents and energy in service of those who need it most. We believe that by supporting solidarity today, we help build a better and more humane society for tomorrow.To fulfil this mission we organise local social action projects and events that inspire youth to volunteer, coordinate learning and training activities that help them develop practical and soft skills, and offer spaces for reflection so they can find deeper meaning in their lives and choices. We also work to foster equal opportunities among young people, regardless of their background, and run campaigns and team-building events that give visibility to solidarity as a core value in Finnish society.IYC Suomi promotes youth volunteering and civic participation not only by inviting young people to join existing initiatives, but also by supporting them to launch their own solidarity projects with the tools and mentoring they need. Our aim is a more inclusive, caring Helsinki region powered by committed and aware youth.As an organisation holding a European Solidarity Corps Quality Label, we also host international ESC volunteers who contribute to our local activities while gaining experience in youth work, community building and intercultural dialogue.Together with our volunteers, partners and supporters we try to make “Living for Others” not just a slogan, but a concrete way of life for young people in Finland.