Mit Herz #dabei I Telekom Careers Blog
“Mit Herz #dabei": How a gala turned into a movement
What started as an organizational task became a lifelong mission for Matthias—lovingly called “Mattes” by his colleagues. With the initiative ““Mit Herz #dabei",” he built a community that extends far beyond the charity gala for “Ein Herz für Kinder.” In this interview, he tells us how an idea grew into a movement.
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Mattes, how did it all begin?
Mattes: Pretty unremarkably, actually—I was part of the routing team and helped organize the charity gala for „Ein Herz für Kinder”. But I soon realized: this project needs more time, more passion! Not just in August when the campaign begins, but throughout the entire year. So I told myself: if it can’t be done as part of my job, I’ll do it voluntarily. And that’s how “Mit Herz #dabei” was born in 2019.
What makes the initiative special?
Mattes: It’s all about togetherness. Every year up to 2,500 colleagues volunteer to take donation calls during the gala evening in support of „Ein Herz für Kinder”. Many have been part of it for years. By now, our community has grown to over 5,000 people. Once you’ve been involved, you stay involved—it’s like a movement that catches on.
Were there moments that touched you in a special way?
Mattes: Oh yes! When children call and break open their piggy banks to donate—that goes straight to the heart. Moments like these show us why we do what we do.
How do you manage everything organizationally?
Mattes: Only together. Other departments provide technology, infrastructure or phone systems free of charge. Volunteers for volunteers—that’s our motto. And if something gets stuck, a puppy-dog look usually helps. Something always works out! (laughs)
Do you have a symbol for your community?
Mattes: Yes, our our heart-shaped fabric tokens. A one-cent item with great meaning. Whoever takes part gets one—and internally, we even have a contest to see who can collect the most. It’s a cherished ritual that we absolutely want to preserve!
What does “Mit Herz#dabei” mean to you personally?
Mattes: It’s my second great love—after my wife. I hope the project will outlive me. I’ll enter partial retirement in 2028, but even then I’ll continue to advise in the background and share my experience, of course. My biggest wish? That the excitement keeps spreading. We’ve already found the right successor, but it will still take a lot of support and a lot of heart—shared across many shoulders.
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Karin Staudt
Karin Staudt has been with Telekom for over 20 years and has gained experience in many areas of the company. She is passionate about writing and, as a member of the Telekom Career social media team, is closely connected to current topics.
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