Recently moved here for graduate school and miss volunteering like I used to back home. I tried to look into volunteering opportunities here but I'm not finding much.
Tried to reach out to Japan Cat Network first a few months ago (filled out the volunteer form, emailed them, and even tried to DM them on Instagram) since I predominantly volunteered at animal shelters back in the U.S. but then I never heard back… Are there any other volunteer or community engagement activities you'd recommend?
I know this will limit my opportunities but my Japanese is pretty basic. Like I can get by a bit of small talk/hobbies but anything deeper than that and I'll probably lose the conversational trail.
That being said though, I also used to be part of a volunteer group that crocheted/knitted items and donated them and we had non-native English speakers who were always greatly valued members (despite not speaking much English) because you really just needed to show up and craft. Wondering if there's anything similar in Kyoto? If not, does anyone have any recommendations for starting something like that?
(I'm also totally open to other volunteer opportunities, my past experiences are just with animal shelters and crafting so that's where I thought I could help the most)
by Business-Pass4672
3 comments
Not exactly volunteering but what about WWOOF. Japanese may be limiting for many homestays but there should be some that can accommodate.
Check out the site activo, or check the volunteer page for local events. I used to volunteer with a pet shelter in Nara, and events in Osaka. The main difficulty is language, but if you don’t mind working with kids, there are tons of English volunteer opportunities. The main thing with shelters is the coordinator may be concerned about your understanding of their policies, so it may help to go with a friend.
Most cities have an office where you can sign up for stuff. I live just outside Kyoto, but mine does.
My students often volunteer at community kitchens (kodomo shokudo 子ども食堂) and there is usually one or two open any given weekend.
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