Give Back

By on December 20, 2018
Photo © Elena Derevstova
There’s something special about Christmas. Step outside during the holidays, and a sense of joy and serenity can be felt. Referred to by many as the Christmas cheer, achieving this state takes far, far more than a box with a bow under your tree or a stocking stuffed with toys by the fireplace. Around the world, there are many for whom December 25 is just another day to struggle through. What better way to experience the Christmas cheer than by spreading the magic to those who could use a smile?

Getting involved in charities is one of the best ways to give back to this world we are a part of. What ever cause you feel most strongly about, there is always someone who needs the assistance. Japan is home to many organizations tirelessly working to eradicate the world of poverty and cruelty, and a simple donation or volunteer work could make all the difference.

Japan is known to many as one of the most advanced countries in the world. However, homelessness and extreme poverty are still prominent in its society. The Second Harvest Japan (www.secondharvestjapan.org) is an organization working tirelessly to help the less fortunate in Tokyo by providing food and other necessities, with the aid of big-hearted volunteers. There may be clothes in your closet you no longer wear, or appliances you have no intention of using that could find better use in other hands. If your family has a Saturday free, take the kids (12 and up) to their soup kitchen. Log onto their website and see more ways you can get involved.

It is especially upsetting to know that millions of children everywhere still fall victim to various tragedies. A local charity doing their part for the kids is Chi-Ki (www.chi-ki.org). Volunteer some of your time (or money) to their fundraisers and programs that are aimed at establishing schools and homes, with a purpose to help reach the kids’ dreams. There is also, of course, UNICEF (www.unicef.org) who does formidable work protecting children all over the world daily. Educating your children on poverty and its effect on others their age just might change the world around.

Animal lovers can do their part as well. A great way to help if you’re planning on adding a member to your family is to skip the pet shop and head to a shelter instead to adopt an orphaned dog, cat, or other animal waiting to find some place they can call home. It’s a win-win: the pet gets a home, your home gets a pet! Sponsoring an animal, donating to kennels, or supporting animal rights will make just as big a difference. The Animal Refuge Kansai (www.arkbark.net/e/index.htm) is a great place to check out, and has plenty of links to other related groups. If you’re willing to help from a distance, be sure to also look into the Okinawan-American Animal Rescue Society (www.oaars.com) and the Best Friends Animal Society (www.bestfriends.org).

And then there is the Earth. With such threats as global warming plaguing our planet, now is a critical time to take action. A simple (and trendy!) way to help is to go green at home. Pay attention to how you utilize electricity, water, and gas; cut out unnecessary usage. Recycle your garbage, limit your use of paper, and take the train or walk when you can. Of course, there’s also the matter of supporting environmentally-friendly organizations. The Aozora Foundation (www.aozora.or.jp/newenglish/eindex.htm) is an NPO aiming to restore areas damaged by pollution, and have various roles that need filling to support their cause.

There are many other organizations out there that do try to make the world a better place. See an extensive list go to http://web-japan.org/links/society/index.html

About Zaila Mbwele