The Somali Association of Western Finland

The association carries out and provides a number of activities and services. LSS relentlessly and systematically monitors and follows up the living conditions of the community and based on that provides statements and makes proposals and initiatives. The association lobbies at various levels and provides constant stream of support and information aimed all at advancing and empowering the community in particular and the wider community in general. We create a clear position on issues of concern, not only to our members, but to all concerned groups who are interested or involved in our activities. We organise different awareness raising activities including sorts and cultural events, training seminars and workshops, roundtables and debates all aimed at promoting integration social integration and inclusion. Activities LSS is engaged include: - supporting and promoting integration, multiculturalism, tolerance and inclusion, - providing guidance and support in matters related to education and legal issues, - Empowering youth and promoting active citizenship - assisting youth with identity crisis - assisting and working with local government agencies and other actors with shared interests intended to advance social cohesiveness. -Encouraging proactive civil engagement and participation on all levels, and -Promotion of inter-faith and inter-cultural dialogue Furthermore, as part of the association’s commitment to promote, empower and strengthen the well-being of the community, LSS gives particular attention the well-being of the families of the community by assisting families in parenting and in conflict situations as well as on all other matters that need community level intervention.