Since 1992, Grand Circle Foundation has devoted itself to giving back to the communities our travelers visit during their world travels—both in good times and in bad. It was, then, no surprise that the question was asked early on March 11: How were we going to help Japan?
The earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan last month prompted incredible response from our travelers and associates, many of whom asked how OAT could best help relief and recovery efforts in the island nation. Faced with a multitude of options, we reached out to those who would know best—our associates based in Tokyo.
ASHINAGA was the enthusiastic response. A Japanese non-profit organization founded in 1969 to support children who have lost one or both of their parents, ASHINAGA provides financial and emotional assistance to this segment of Japan’s youth. The organization has helped more than 60,000 orphans with the scholarship support they needed to graduate; youngsters have also benefited from summer camps and emotional care programs at Kobe Rainbow House, the first day care center for orphans in Japan.
Our Help for Japan fund’s beneficiary selected, we shared word of our efforts. And, thanks to the incredible generosity of 1,357 travelers, associates, and Trip Leaders and Program Directors from around the world, we raised a total of $173,086 for ASHINAGA during our fundraising campaign. The total—which includes a $25,000 match by Grand Circle Foundation—will help provide stipends for children of all ages, scholarships for those ready to pursue higher education, and the construction of a new facility that will offer additional emotional support programs.
This support will help an organization—and a nation—facing a situation unlike anything it has ever experienced, says Chikako Iwata, OAT’s Operations & Program Services Manager in Japan.
“The scale of the disaster is unimaginable, and the situation in the stricken area is tragic. The children who lost one or both parents are especially pitiable,” Chikako says. “Many children were saved because they were at school, but their parents either perished or are missing. The Foundation’s donation will help ensure they have the opportunity to study at high school and university. I believe our gift will change their lives in the future.”
Difficult times lie ahead for the Japanese youth, but thanks to ASHINAGA, grieving children will be able to come together and support one another as they go through the healing process. Our gift will go a long way toward making this possible.
Learn about how we give back to the world we travel through Grand Circle Foundation.