Rooted in a vision conceived in 1945 and established nationally in 1953, the Finlandia Foundation has spent decades nurturing Finnish-American identity and cultural pride across the United States. The Finlandia Foundation Suomi Chapter brings this mission directly to the Bellingham, WA community and the surrounding regions of Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties. Since its founding in 2010, the Suomi Chapter has maintained continuity through its dedicated leadership, with three founding members—Tapio Holma, Asko Hamalainen, and Brend Hunt-Holma—remaining actively engaged on the board. The chapter exists to strengthen the bonds between Finnish Americans and their ancestral homeland while creating meaningful opportunities for younger generations to develop a sense of Finnishness and cultural connection. Through potluck gatherings, cultural lectures, film festivals, and community events, the Suomi Chapter fosters relationships among members while celebrating the distinctive traditions, history, and values of Finnish culture. The organization serves as a welcoming hub for anyone interested in exploring Finnish heritage, whether they have direct Finnish ancestry or simply appreciate Nordic culture. By hosting regular events and maintaining open communication with its membership, the Finlandia Foundation Suomi Chapter demonstrates its commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive community where Finnish-American culture can flourish and be passed forward to future generations in the Bellingham area.
Bellingham, WA