YHRES

Yhres is a community initiative run by Särkisalokotiyhdistys ry in Särkisalo, Finland, focused on supporting wellbeing and participation in rural life. Its work particularly promotes the social and physical health of older people, while welcoming residents of other ages and encouraging interaction across generations. Yhres uses an accessible, low-threshold approach and works closely with local associations, the parish, businesses and the City of Salo.

Särkisalokoti, the village’s shared community hub, is the main setting for its activities. Programs include group gatherings, walking sessions, guided gym exercise, shared meals, card games and wellbeing events. The venue also brings together local services and facilities, including a library, gym, kitchen and dining room, health and home-care services, and independent wellbeing professionals. Yhres shares schedules, event updates and other community information through its calendar and Facebook page. It also supports local initiatives such as the Valehtelijan rest-bench project, whose benches offer places to pause, community history and activity prompts along routes around Särkisalo. The initiative is funded by STEA and the City of Salo.