What we do

FAHA is a place, a philosophy, and a state of mind.

The organization founded an extensive facility in the Valley of the Moon--the fabled Northern california area surrounding Sonoma, about one hour from San Francisco. Our impeccable facilities include two living residences for seniors, a generously sized swimming pool, two authentic Finnish saunas, guest units, indoor meeting facilities, a reception hall, a commercial kitchen, and a well stocked library.

The Library/Kirjasto is the repository of Finnish literature, history and heritage--a place to learn about our roots and share them with younger generations. Art and artifacts of Finnish culture and design are displayed in the library. FAHA's Library Committee arranges public exhibits and events to share the diverse Finnish contributions to world culture, from the charming fabrics of Marimekko to cooking classes of the legendary coffee bread of Finland, pulla.

FAHA's Mission

"We are a participatory organization which promotes a sense of community, common heritage, and a caring environment for all ages. We pursue our goals by providing housing and care for the elderly, and by fostering cultural and educational activities that bridge the generations."

What is FAHA?

The Finnish American Heritage Association, or FAHA, is a unique non-profit organization that has grown from its roots as a small service organization into a regional authority on Finnish culture and traditions.

Hundreds of families and thousands of people turn to FAHA for their eldercare housing needs, cultural enrichment, companionship, and well-being.

The organization operates FAHA Manor, a highly acclaimed affordable residence for seniors, and FAHA Palms, an equally sought-after cooperative residence for FAHA seniors, on the grounds of its complex in Sonoma, California.

But that's just the beginning...

What's next?

While FAHA is recognized for its well-run facilities, the future holds much more for the organization. Our focus in the years ahead is to capture and share it with our growing membership, the community of Sonoma, and the world at large.

We are seeking grants to pursue cultural programs worthy of our heritage--and worthy of your patronage. Our first successful project, the traditional Recipes of Finland CD & Cookbook, is a cherished compilation of recipes by the women of FAHA.

We offer cultural events, Finnish holiday celebrations, and Finnish cultural summer camps for children ages 4-12, along with opportunities for our teens to serve as counselors at our camps.

We will apply the same vision and sense of pride to all of these projects and look forward to sharing them with you in the years to come.