Suomen Latu — the Outdoor Association of Finland is a national non-profit organization founded in 1938. Suomen Latu has a unique role as the largest outdoor organization in Finland and the number of individual members is growing totalling almost 90 000 members in more than 170 associations.
So, what do we actually do?
Our mission is to promote outdoor recreation and a physically active lifestyle for all. Our activities cover all seasons and are adapted for all ages. Traditional activities such as hiking and skiing remain popular and new ones, such as well-being from nature, mountain biking, trail running and activities for families have taken root.
All in all Suomen Latu promotes 15 activities nationally by organizing trainings and supporting the volunteers. Member associations organize activities based on the local interests and conditions.
According to our vision, everybody finds a meaningful way to engage in outdoor activities and enjoy nature. Suomen Latu is a recognised advocate for outdoor activities. Our members promote outdoor activities and enjoy nature in a sustainable way.
We publish the magazine Latu&Polku, which is the biggest outdoor magazine in Finland with 140 000 readers.
Below you’ll find our values.
We work to ensure that everyone living in Finland has a right to enjoy outdoor activities at their own level, depending on their starting point, on their own or in the company of others and in their local area – regardless of gender, age, cultural background, health or social status. We organize outdoor activities suitable for all and participate in events organized by others. Outdoor activities are present in our everyday life, for example as physical activity in leisure and at work.
Outdoor areas are a prerequisite for our operations. Our activities strengthen a sustainable relationship with nature as they are based on physical activity (no motorized activities except for disabled persons) and create a genuine connection between nature and mind. We avoid unnecessary wear and tear on nature. We respect nature and communicate how to act sustainably in the outdoors. We are able to enjoy the outdoors and conserve it for future generations. We cherish everyman’s rights and responsibilities. We guide outdoor enthusiasts holistically to environmentally responsible practices in all our activities.
Our activities are open to all and it is easy to get involved. Everyone is welcome to join us. We communicate of outdoor activities and related topics in a transparent manner. Transparency is expressed in trust, commitment and respect for our actions.
People are involved in our activities of their own choice. Our goal is to support voluntary participation and self-reliance. We value the contributions of volunteers. The role of hired staff is to create, maintain and support a framework for volunteering.