ESC: Youth work in Muonio, Finnish Lapland

Vasatokka is one of nine national youth centers in Finland. Our actions are followed by youth law and are financed and controlled by the Ministry of Education and culture. Vasatokka has a non-profit and public function to support the healthy growth of children and youngsters by offering a safe and inspiring Lappish environment for both youngsters and educators. The values behind our work are common to all Finnish Youth Centers: -Valuable youth work: Fair, genuine and respectful encounters in a safe environment. Everyone has the right to be heard and to have their say. -A genuine experience: We create moments that allow young people to connect with other people, with nature, and with themselves. A genuine experience is more than just an experience – it’s an adventure. -Respect for life and nature: We support individuals’ life management skills and well-being. We promote sustainable development and strengthen individuals’ relationship with nature. -An evolving community: We are an inspiring and creative partner. We work with heart and professionalism. Our enthusiasm for renewal realizes through lifelong learning. The main priorities in our functions are national and international camp schools, excursions for exchange students, development of social and international youth work (ESC-volunteering, youth exchanges), and local, national, and international youth cooperation. Vasatokka also carries out Nuotta-training which is meant as a supporting tool for NEET youngsters with fewer opportunities. Our center is located in the middle of nature in the rural area, and we use nature and adventure education as our working methods too. Our actions base mainly on experiential activities that are related to nature, sports, wellbeing, culture, and creativity. Activities include e.g. hiking, wilderness skills, paddling, skiing, snowshoeing, climbing, handicrafts, cooking, games and sports that increase team spirit and many kinds of social and physical skills. We work also in youth tourism. We also carry out sport clubs for kids and youngsters, and at the moment we are providing club activity funded by Suomen harrastamisen malli, in cooperation with Inari municipality and school. Vasatokka is the only Youth Center in the Lapland region, and we have cooperation with other municipalities of Lapland. Also, groups from all parts of Finland come to Vasatokka so our geographical reach is more than just Lapland. We have good connections to the local and national sport associations, and we develop our actions in cooperation with them.