Empowering Youth in Care Homes Through Nature

While we have been postponing our outdoor programs for campres, we were able to hold some online company visit program for high school students.

This program aims to help the children with their preparation for their independence while under various restrictions and limited learning opportunities during the pandemic. We also had one of our graduates join us, who is currently in her second year in university.

After a quick introduction, employees of the company gave us a simple and easy to understand explanation of financial industry and the company itself. They used examples that were familiar to all of us, and there were many good questions from the students, expanding their knowledge about the industry and the society. After the explanation, students had chance to ask more personal questions regarding the work, career path, and what motivates them. Each of the employees told us about their own experiences and gave students many great advice. They reflected at the end on what they have learned through this program.

“I now have better idea on what a “company” actually is. It was great to learn about the financial industry. I now have one more option to think about for my career.”

“I’m in my second year of university now, and I felt pressured to decide on my career path and where to work. However, after listening to everyone’s stories, I’ve learned that I don’t have to decide right away because everyone goes through many twists and turns before settles into their profession.

This program had not only given the students new perspectives for their career, but also a chance to practice online communication, which they will require as they prepare for their independence in these restricted times. 

We are committed to our mission to provide life-changing experiences for the marginalized youth. 

Links:

• Get to Know Mirai no Mori Series #1 - Children's Care Homes
• Get to Know Mirai no Mori Series #2 - The Children

Dear Supporters,

We hope this note finds you and your loved ones healthy and safe.

It was the first time in 5 years we started our new year without a Winter Camp. We certainly missed welcoming and seeing campers challenging themselves in the winter wonderland. However, it also gave us an opportunity to rethink our methods and strategize for the year to come. 

First and foremost, we remain committed to our mission to empower the youth we serve. They will need “life skills”, more than ever, as they enter society on their own in these uncertain times. While our usual outdoor programs are being canceled under the state of emergency, we continue to prepare for when we can resume them safely. We will also continue to explore different ways to reach out and support these deserving children.

We heard from care workers that they have been working hard to maintain connections to the outside world and that they, too, have been exploring and using new methods with their children. Together with the people on the ground and our supporters and volunteers, Mirai no Mori will keep moving forward and continue to support the children we serve for a brighter future.

We are able to continue to serve marginalized youth in Japan, all because of generous donations and support from people like you. We cannot thank you enough. As we continue our journey to provide more unique learning opportunities for the children, we deeply appreciate your kind and continuous support for Mirai no Mori. We hope all of you stay safe and healthy in this new year.