Björken: A place where both people and community can grow

Located in central Boden, Björken has become a meeting place for people of all ages throughout the municipality. On the ground floor, JobbCenter manages two meeting rooms, a hobby room, and Pelarsalen – all of which can be booked by associations, companies, organisations, and for events.

From JobbCenter, the Fixarna service also operates, providing daily assistance for elderly residents with tasks and poster services for associations in Boden. There is also Orangeriet – initiatives for participants through the local coordination association, and Växtzon – a collaboration with individual and family care services.

The restaurant on the entrance floor is run by the Municipality of Boden and is appreciated by both the senior residents and other visitors.

Coaching Towards Employment

A team of educators and employment coaches are also based here. Essayas Neguse Okbehans, an economist by training, is responsible for computer training at Björken and the Learning Centre; Susanna Hellström is an art educator and assistant nurse; Angelica Nyström is a health coach and social worker; Anna Sandström and Jenny Erickson are both educators. Together, they support individuals referred by JobbCenter, providing knowledge, conversations, work placements, and coaching, both in groups and individually, to build a toolbox for their journey towards employment.

Promoting the Path to Work and Studies

The facilities are equipped with materials for various art forms. Creative activities positively impact health, encouraging health-promoting behaviours, emotions, thought patterns, ambitions, desires, and emotional well-being. The health aspect also includes yoga, mindfulness, and lectures on topics such as the nervous system and techniques for participants to improve their health in a positive way. Basic computer skills are also included in the toolbox.

Valuable Investments

Helena Löfgren, who is responsible for the activities at Björken, sees even more opportunities and visions for both the place and the people in the building.

“Here we have a social community that even those living in the building can be invited to. I believe we will be able to create many valuable initiatives here to meet both Boden’s and people’s needs and help more people of all ages grow with Boden,” says Helena.

Other activities at Björken include Björkens Kamratförening (Friends Association) and Sunderby Folk High School’s project Utväg.