Finland’s only Äiti Amma Center in Leppävirta announces expansion plans

The Äiti Amma Center, located in Leppävirta, North Savo, Finland, is planning to expand. This center is the only official one of its kind in the country. Since its opening earlier this year, it has generated significant interest, attracting visitors from abroad and all over Finland.

Äiti Amma, an Indian religious leader and spiritual teacher, is known as one of the most famous philanthropists of our time. She works as a peace ambassador worldwide, showing compassion by hugging people.

The center was founded by Susanna and Jari Järveläinen. After a long search for a suitable location, they found Leppävirta. “As followers of Amma, we felt a strong need to have a place where we can physically carry out Amma’s charity work,” Susanna Järveläinen explains. Currently, about ten people live at the center and participate in its activities, with more expected to join.

Leppävirta municipality has an impressive old building that the center is interested in acquiring and renovating. “We would like to buy and restore it,” says Järveläinen. This old building, formerly a school, could accommodate up to 350 people after renovations. While the followers of Amma only need such a large space a few times a year, the idea is that the space would also serve the residents of the municipality.

Susanna Järveläinen suggests that the new premises could host day programs for the elderly, for example. The acquisition of the premises would be supported by donors. “We are a very young foundation and we do not have a large fortune,” she explains.

Äiti Amma is currently on a six-week tour in the United States, after which she is expected to visit Europe. The Leppävirta community hopes that Amma, who has visited all her centers, will also visit North Savo in October or November. So far, the spiritual leader has only seen the Leppävirta center via video call.

Amma has made a profound impact on her followers. “Äiti Amma is an incredible example of how a person can dedicate their life to others. The way she comforts and helps, not only through hugging but also through her charity organization, is inspiring,” describes Susanna Järveläinen.