Culture belongs to everyone. It brings joy, wellbeing, and a sense of community – but for many, participation is not a given. Financial barriers, loneliness, or transportation challenges can prevent people from accessing cultural experiences.
The Cultural Companions volunteer programme lowers these barriers and turns culture into a shared experience. Companies can participate by donating tickets to cultural events.
Working Together for Equal Access to Culture – Companies as Enablers of Wellbeing
Companies can easily participate in the Cultural Companions programme. In practice, the company and the Oulu Cultural Foundation enter into a donation agreement. The agreed amount is invoiced from the company and directed toward purchasing tickets to cultural events, which the Cultural Companions programme then uses.
Currently, the programme operates in the following locations: Alavieska, Haapavesi, Kajaani, Kuhmo, Kuusamo, Oulainen, Oulu, Sievi, and Ylivieska.
By becoming a social responsibility partner of Oulu2026, a company directly supports equality, inclusion, and community wellbeing. Each donated ticket can be the first step for someone into the world of culture.
What Is Cultural Companions?
Cultural Companions is part of Oulu2026’s volunteer activities. Trained volunteers accompany people to events—those who would otherwise stay at home.
The programme is especially aimed at individuals who lack the financial or social means to attend cultural events. With the support of companies, we can offer free tickets for volunteers and participants who are in a more vulnerable position – opening doors to the wellbeing effects of culture.
Osuuskauppa Arina is the main partner of Oulu2026 volunteer work.
More information:
Anna Litewka-Anttolainen
Project Manager
anna.litewka-anttolainen@oulu2026.eu
