This month we had the opportunity to talk to Daniel Benson, the Nursing Home Administrator and Executive Director of Finnish-American Village. With a background in healthcare management and long-term care administration, Daniel leads with a compassionate commitment to quality and culturally enriched care. Under his leadership, the team at Finnish-American Village has been proud to be rated 5-Stars by CMS, achieved deficiency-free survey recognition from FALA, 10/10 rating with A Place for Mom, and Home Care has been recognized in the Best of Florida Guide. His vision and dedication to exceptional care continues to guide the not-for-profit organization in delivering excellence across assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and home care services.
Finnish-American Village was established in early 1974 in Lake Worth, Florida, which at the time was home to the largest Finnish population in the United States. Many Finnish immigrants settled in the area during the 1950s and 60s, creating a strong community with businesses, hotels, restaurants and cultural institutions. As the Finnish population in Lake Worth grew, it became clear that many of them struggled with the language and cultural barriers in traditional American healthcare settings. To meet this need, the local Finnish community came together to establish Finnish-American Rest Home, a non-profit organization focused on providing quality care for elderly Finnish immigrants, offering both cultural familiarity and support in their native language. The origins of the organization were not driven by business opportunity, but by community need. For many years, the focus was not on growth or expansion, but simply on preserving heritage, protecting culture, and ensuring that community members were well cared for as they navigated their sunset years.
Originally established as an assisted living facility, Finnish-American Rest Home expanded in the 1980s with the development of its nursing home division. Today, Finnish-American Village builds on the organization and mission of Finnish-American Rest Home and offers three types of care. The nursing care division offers both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care for residents who can no longer live independently. The assisted living facilities are designed for those who are still largely independent but need some daily support, such as help with medications or appointments. The in-home care service allows seniors to receive professional support while remaining in the comfort of their own homes, which to many is preferable. When the time comes that greater care is needed, the assisted living and nursing services are there to help with the transition.
One of the most significant areas of growth has been the home care division, which has allowed the organization to reach and support many more individuals beyond its physical facilities. This expansion has broadened impact and strengthened its role in the community. It allows the facility to touch many more lives, diversify revenue, and create additional jobs, benefiting both the organization and the community.
In recent years, the organization has taken intentional steps to strengthen its connection to Finnish culture. While the board continues to be led by seven Finnish organizations, the facility has also formed new partnerships within the community. A notable example is its collaboration with St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, a Finnish congregation that now conducts on-site services for residents unable to attend elsewhere. The organization also maintains strong outreach beyond Florida, working with FinnFest and both local and national chapters of the Finnish American Chamber of Commerce. These partnerships reinforce cultural identity while ensuring national visibility and recognition of the services it provides. Through the Annan Maja Heritage Hall behind the facilities, many seasonal and cultural events are open for residents and the community at large, such as the St. Lucia parade, Scandinavian Christmas Market, twice-weekly Finnish Luncheons during season, and a variety of Finnish films and musical performances.
Through cultural partnerships, innovative programming, and a strong commitment to quality care, Finnish-American Village continues to honor its Finnish roots while shaping a vibrant future for the wider Scandinavian community. When the nursing home division opened, Finnish residents, staff, and volunteers filled the building, reflecting the demographics of Lake Worth at the time. Over the years, however, demographics shifted, and about 15 years ago the organization opened its doors more widely to other cultures in order to thrive. This was a major transition, but a successful one. Today, approximately 35% of residents and 27% of staff are of Finnish descent, alongside many other cultures that contribute to a rich and inclusive community.
Finnish-American Village stands out as truly unique in the field of elder care. Unlike many others, it is a non-profit organization, which immediately sets it apart. There are no corporate owners demanding cost cuts or pushing for residents to be admitted when proper care cannot be provided. Instead, the facility is guided by seven Finnish organizations, ensuring that its cultural foundation has remained strong throughout the years. This focus on mission rather than profit has been one of the key reasons for its success. While many companies invest millions in flashy upgrades to lobbies, dining rooms, or common spaces, often without improving the actual quality of care, Finnish-American Village takes a different approach. The building itself may be over 50 years old, but it feels warm, familiar, and home-like. Its design and daily life reflects a distinctly Finnish style, which, combined with the atmosphere created by staff, makes it a welcoming place where exceptional care (with European flair) is imbued.
At the heart of the organization is a commitment to quality of care. The facility holds a five-star rating from CMS, the highest possible rating awarded by the federal government’s evaluation system. The FL Assisted Living Association has recognized the facility for a deficiency-free survey. Leading online platform for elder care, A Place for Mom, rates them 10 out of 10 and the Home Care service will be honored in the Best of Florida Guide this year. These recognitions reflect the consistent excellence in healthcare services provided to residents and clients in the community. What truly sets the organization apart, however, is the fact that many employees have remained with the organization for a long time. Many nurses, aides, and team members have been with the facility for two, even four decades, which is rare in the healthcare industry. This long-term commitment creates stability for residents and strengthens the bond between staff and the community. The leadership team promotes open communication and teamwork, values that are reflected throughout the facility. Managers and staff work together seamlessly, creating a culture of cooperation that visitors immediately notice, a welcoming atmosphere built on care, respect, and genuine connection. It is more than just a workplace or healthcare provider; it is a community where both staff and residents thrive.
Finnish-American Village has experienced what can best be described as a renaissance in recent years. After more than 50 years of serving the community, there was a period of decline when both Finnish residents and Finnish staff were decreasing, raising concerns about whether the cultural identity could be preserved while also maintaining the business side necessary for survival. Through strong leadership and community support, the organization has successfully revitalized itself. Today, the Finnish-American Village has not only preserved its Finnish roots but also expanded to include other cultural influences, creating a stronger, more unified community. This renewal has been a major milestone, demonstrating the organization’s ability to adapt while staying true to its heritage. In addition, like many healthcare providers, the organization faced the significant challenge of navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, a difficult and demanding time that tested resilience and commitment. Despite these obstacles, the organization has emerged stronger, supported by its community, and continues to thrive as both a healthcare provider and a cultural cornerstone.
As an organization rooted in Finnish heritage, Finnish-American Village believes it is vital to nurture connections with neighboring communities that share its cultural background. By joining SACC Florida the organization reaffirms its commitment to unity and mutual support among Scandinavian-American organizations, particularly in the South Florida area. This partnership not only strengthens local ties but also enhances the organization’s ability to honor and celebrate shared global traditions and values within our community.
Looking ahead, Finnish-American Village faces common challenges in elder care such as shifting regulations, evolving health needs, and high expectations. A key priority is recruiting more Finnish staff to strengthen cultural ties with residents and support the long-term vision. While attracting local employees is successful, finding Finnish professionals remains essential, especially to uphold and exceed the five-star CMS rating and continue serving the Finnish community that has long supported the facility.
To learn more about Finnish-American Village, visit: https://www.farh.org/
