By Kozue Oka | Executive Director
Thank you for your incredible support in 2025. Thanks to donors like you, we were able to continue providing consistent, transformative outdoor programs for marginalized children in Japan. Here is a look at how we closed the year with our campers, Leaders in Training (high school students), and program graduates.
October: Farming & Hiking Programs
In October, we hosted two different programs. The first was a day on a farm with children from four care homes. This experience gave them a rare opportunity to see, touch, and learn about farm animals, something many do not encounter in daily life. They also learned how milk travels from farms to our tables, deepening their understanding of where food comes from.
Our second program was a hiking experience with over 30 campers. Along the 4 km trail, teams were encouraged to engage their five senses, paying attention to smells, sounds, textures, and scenery, and to notice how these changed as they moved through the landscape.
November: Forestry Experience
In November, we held our autumn kikori forestry program, a hands-on experience in the forest surrounded by vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The goal was to help care for the forest by collecting fallen branches and leaves and using them to create simple natural structures. Many campers discovered new ways to connect with nature, such as spotting insects, comparing leaf shapes, and enjoying a favorite activity this time: making wreaths from vines.
December: Christmas Programs
We closed the year with a festive weekend outdoors, joined by campers from five care homes. Participants learned about Christmas traditions from around the world, enjoyed international holiday treats, reflected on the meaning of Christmas as a time of giving, and took part in fun craft activities using natural materials. This program was especially meaningful as we were joined by program graduates, whose presence served as a powerful reminder to campers and LITs that Mirai no Mori is not a place they have to say goodbye to.
We look forward to continuing to grow our impact in the coming year, connecting with more children and further spreading awareness of our mission.
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