On 29 December 2024 at the picturesque Newcastle sea front, PeacePlayers Northern Ireland hosted its 9th annual "Freeze for Peace" challenge.
The Community Relations Council supports the organisation through its Core Funding Scheme.
The event drew over 20 participants, staff, board and friends of PeacePlayers, each braving the icy waters in a bid to raise funds to support the organisation's ongoing mission of using sport, particularly the game of basketball, to create opportunities for young leaders to promote respect and mutual understanding between the historically divided community of Northern Ireland. The money raised from the Freeze for Peace challenge will directly support PeacePlayers' work in becoming more sustainable in their effort to create safe spaces for young leaders to form friendships and become advocates for peace and justice in Northern Ireland.
Gareth Harper, Managing Director of PeacePlayers Northern Ireland, expressed his gratitude to all who participated and supported the event, highlighting the power of community in creating a brighter future for Northern Ireland. Gareth said, "The Freeze for Peace challenge exemplifies the resilience and unity of our community. It's heartening to see so many individuals come together, embracing the cold for a cause that warms the heart. The funds raised will enable us to continue our mission of using sport to bridge divides and foster lasting peace."
A big “thank you” to everyone who braved the icy waters and to everyone who contributed donations. If you would like to show your support and congratulations to those who took part in the Freeze for Peace challenge and to support the continued work of PeacePlayers that aims to showcase that ‘children who play together can learn together’ you can donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/peaceplayerspolarplunge2024
Joanne Fitzpatrick Recognised with MBE in New Year Honours List 2025
Everyone at PeacePlayers Northern Ireland is bursting with pride as they celebrate Joanne Fitzpatrick being awarded an MBE in the 2025 New Year Honours List for her exceptional contributions and dedication to community relations and peacebuilding through sport in Northern Ireland.
Joanne has worked with PeacePlayers Northern Ireland for 17 years, using her passion, leadership and expertise to foster connections, break down barriers and create opportunities for young people to play together so they can learn to live together. Speaking about the recognition, Joanne said, “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. It reflects the collective efforts of so many individuals and an organisation that is committed to building a better future for everyone in Northern Ireland. This recognition is a testament to the power of working together to overcome division.”
This honour is a true reflection of Joanne’s commitment and everyone at PeacePlayers Northern Ireland is grateful for her contributions to the organisation’s mission. Her work exemplifies the values that PeacePlayers seeks to promote, and the organisation extends their heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved accolade and they couldn’t be prouder to call her one of their own.