Rush Factory faces scrutiny over unpaid volunteers at color obstacle run in Jyväskylä

Rush Factory, known for its color obstacle run events, has been involved in a troubling situation with the Vaajakoski football club for several months. The company organized a color obstacle run in Jyväskylä in August, for which it sought volunteers. FC Vaajakoski offered around 40 volunteers, most of whom were minors, expecting a payment of €3,100 for their work. However, the club has yet to receive this money.

Concerns arose on the event day when only two Rush Factory employees were present, while the majority of the work was completed by volunteers, contrary to prior agreements. Annika Nyyssönen from FC Vaajakoski stated they were originally promised leadership from Rush, but ended up managing that as well.

After the event, Nyyssönen attempted to contact the CEO of Rush Factory regarding the unpaid sum, who initially promised to look into the matter but has since ceased communication. Nyyssönen mentioned that €3,000 is a significant amount for the junior team, which relies on fundraising for about a third of its budget.

Despite assurances from Rush Factory’s CEO, Mika Metsämäki, that the payment would be made by November 6, he failed to reach out or answer follow-up calls. He later admitted financial challenges within the subsidiary Funrun Finland, which is unable to settle outstanding debts, including those owed to the football club.

As the company’s financial difficulties have persisted, Rush Factory has faced bankruptcy threats, although it successfully resolved recent claims from creditors. However, the bankruptcy application against Funrun Finland remains active, leaving the football club’s situation uncertain.