Empowering Youth in Care Homes Through Nature

Thank you for your continued support! Here’s a look at what we’ve accomplished together this summer.

July: Hiking & Boxing Programs
In July, we hosted two programs. The first was a hiking program where we were lucky with perfect weather, setting the stage for a 4 km mountain hike followed by river play. Some campers hiked for the very first time, while others brought experience from previous years, and we saw many moments of kindness as campers helped each other through steep or tricky sections.

Our second program was a special highlight that had not taken place since 2019: Boxing! This was made possible thanks to our guest, professional boxer Hiroyuki Sakamoto. Having grown up in a care home in Fukuoka, Sakamoto-san shared how boxing became his path to self-discovery and perseverance. The activity challenged campers both physically and mentally, in an encouraging environment where they felt supported.

August: Summer Camp 2025
This August, we welcomed around 90 campers from 9 care homes for three five-day sessions of Summer Camp, filled with outdoor adventures and opportunities for growth. Activities included stream hiking, outdoor cooking, team games, and crafts. What made this year special were new initiatives that improved program quality, strengthened care home partnerships, and provided tailored support for children of all ages.

In addition to campers aged 6-14, high school students in our Leader In Training program joined behind the scenes, learning teamwork, time management, and responsibility through activity support. Graduates also returned as kitchen support, many now full-time workers or university students. They once stood in the same shoes as our campers, and their presence showed younger children that Mirai no Mori is a lifelong community they can always come back to.

September: Rafting Adventures
In September, we closed our summer programs with two full weekends of rafting on the beautiful Tama River. We have returned to this river for many years, yet each time it brings new adventures! Rafts were mixed groups, bringing together campers from different homes along with adults as new role models. This setting encouraged teamwork and communication, as children rose to challenges when supported by peers.

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Together, we continue to empower children, LITs, and graduates, helping them grow and discover their potential through every season. Stay tuned to see what autumn brings!