Mission Statement
- Support, preserve and cultivate Finnish culture in the United States
- Support cultural programs and activities of Finnish-American societies, churches, rest homes and educational institutions
- Fund for Finnish cultural archives, museums and historical monuments in the United States
- Receive by gift, bequest, grant, purchase, lease, or transfer real or personal property.
- Maintain a fund or funds for the purpose of supporting Finnish culture in the United States and furthering cultural and educational exchange and relations between Finland and the United States not inconsistent with the provisions governing the Internal Revenue Code, Exempt Organizations.
- Maintain an organization open to individuals and groups in the United States who wish to support the Foundation in achieving any or all of its objectives.
National Organization
Finlandia Foundation National, a California non-profit organization, was founded in 1953 and has its headquarters in Pasadena, CA. and is governed by a Board of Trustees. It is the parent organization of subsequently formed local chapters, of which there are 23 in states across the country.
With its network of chapters and affiliates across America, Finlandia Foundation National is the largest source of support for Finnish culture in the United States.
Finlandia Foundation New York Metropolitan Chapter
Finlandia Foundation New York Metropolitan Chapter, Inc. is a chapter of Finlandia Foundation National. It was founded April 12, 1954 by Reino Aarnio, Jean Pellinen, Britta Simpson and Raymond K. Luomanen as a 501c3 corporation. It is governed by a Board of Trustees.
The Foundation works to further cultural and educational exchange between the United States and Finland and to foster better understanding between the two countries.
To achieve its mission, the Foundation awards scholarships, over $350,000 to date, and arranges cultural and social events which are open to members and the general public.