#Japan #Kyoto #High Hope #FC Tokyo #ICHI INC.

FC Tokyo Extends Gratitude to Minister Suzuki for HIGH HOPE

In a significant gesture, FC Tokyo and ICHI INC., a company based in Kyoto dedicated to reducing youth crime, formally expressed their appreciation to Japan's Legal Minister, Keisuke Suzuki. This meeting occurred on the occasion of awarding the Social Challenger Award at the 2025 J. League Shareen! Awards. The representatives of FC Tokyo and ICHI INC. presented a letter of gratitude to Minister Suzuki, highlighting the collaborative efforts in implementing the HIGH HOPE Program at the Tama Juvenile Prison beginning in November 2024.

ICHI INC., founded by Kazuto Chuma, aims to tackle the issue of juvenile crime through community engagement, and their partnership with FC Tokyo exemplifies this mission. This initiative takes on added significance as it seeks not only to rehabilitate young offenders but also empower them by involving them in creative projects.

During the meeting with Minister Suzuki, Chuma reported plans regarding the HIGH HOPE Program, which includes various group activities designed for the participants. The open dialogue allowed for the exchange of ideas and support, receiving encouraging feedback from the Minister, who emphasized the importance of such programs in helping steer youths towards a positive path.

Progress of the HIGH HOPE Program

The development of the original tote bag, designed by Masato Suzuki from the company enn, has reached completion following multiple group work sessions involving nine participants from the first cohort of the program. These tote bags are set to be produced at Fuchu Prison and will be available for sale at an FC Tokyo match on September 23, 2025. This engagement not only focuses on the production aspect but also encourages the boys to think about marketing strategies and price setting for their products.

On July 30, 2025, an orientation session was held for the second cohort of 25 boys, setting the stage for their upcoming involvement in the program.

Upcoming HIGH HOPE Program Events

• - Product Planning Session 2, Phase 1 / Promotional Strategies

Date: Friday, September 12, 2025, from 13:10 to 15:10
Participants: Approximately 10 inmates
Location: Tama Juvenile Prison, 670 Midorimachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0932

• - Original Tote Bag Sales Event: NO PLANET, NO TOKYO

Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 14:00 to 18:00
Location: Ajinomoto Stadium, 376-3 Nishimachi, Chofu, Tokyo 182-0032
Match: FC Tokyo vs. Avispa Fukuoka, kick-off at 18:00
Special Site: FC Tokyo Official Website

About ICHI INC.

Founded in November 2023, ICHI INC. is based in Kyoto and spearheaded by Kazuto Chuma, focusing on social initiatives aimed at rehabilitating youth. Their vision encompasses bridging pathways for juveniles towards a brighter future through constructive engagement and community ties.

For more information on the HIGH HOPE Program: HIGH HOPE Website