The Association of the Year 2026 is Harvialan Martat

The municipality of Janakkala annually recognizes, now for the fifth time, one association operating in Janakkala with the title “Association of the Year”. The Association of the Year 2026 has been named Harvialan Martat. The association will be awarded on May 23 at the Turenki Spring Fest.

The association stands out for its exceptionally active, versatile and community-oriented activities, which bring joy and wellbeing to both its members and the local community. The activities are wide-ranging and accessible; events and workshops are often open to all who are interested.

The association carries out meaningful cooperation with daycare centres, Harviala School and the Finnish Red Cross (SPR) and actively participates in municipal events, e.g. at Laurinmäki. Long-term school collaboration and, for example, snack courses organised for pupils are concrete examples of impactful everyday work.

The activities are rich in content: among other things there are food courses, craft and hobby evenings, garden meetings, cultural trips and lectures open to everyone on topical subjects. Especially popular are clothing repair workshops, which promote a sustainable lifestyle and a sense of community.

The association also bears a strong social responsibility by participating in charity, such as knitting woollen socks for maternity clinics and daycare centres and making comfort/worry dolls for use in emergency care. Positive and active communication increases the visibility of the activities and attracts new participants.

The association’s atmosphere is open and warm, which is reflected in the steady growth of membership. It is easy to get involved in the activities, and for many the association has provided new friendships and meaningful engagement.

When selecting the Association of the Year, attention is paid to the following points, with emphasis on one or more criteria.

• The impact of the association’s activities, effects on the membership community, the living environment or the surrounding society.
• The support of the association’s activities for the municipal strategy and/or the wellbeing plan.
• Cooperation with the municipality and other actors.
• The association’s response to a current situation or needs.
• Positive distinctive features of the association’s activities.

The Association of the Year is proposed by the municipality’s association liaisons and the selection is made by the welfare committee. This year suggestions were also requested from residents; many proposed Harvialan Martat. The Association of the Year receives 500 euros to be used for its own enjoyment.