kobe, Japan



Volunteering in kobe

By Betsy Burlingame

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

Summary: Volunteering is a wonderful way to connect with others in kobe. Here are several organizations you might consider supporting.

Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to integrate into the local community of Kobe, Japan. It provides a unique opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, both locals and fellow expats, while making a positive impact. Engaging in volunteer work can help you learn more about the culture, improve your language skills, and build a social network. Kobe, with its diverse and vibrant community, offers numerous volunteering opportunities catering to various interests and skills.

Kobe YMCA International Center

The Kobe YMCA International Center promotes cultural exchange and supports the international community in Kobe. Volunteers can assist with language classes, cultural events, and community support services. To get involved, you can contact the center directly and inquire about current volunteer openings. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week.

Website: kobeymca.org/ic/
Location(s): Kobe YMCA International Center
Time Commitment: A few hours per week

Second Harvest Japan

Second Harvest Japan is a nationwide food bank that collects and distributes food to those in need. In Kobe, volunteers can help with food sorting, packing, and distribution. To volunteer, you can sign up through their website and choose shifts that fit your schedule. The time commitment is flexible, with shifts typically lasting a few hours.

Website: 2hj.org/
Location(s): Various locations in Kobe
Time Commitment: Flexible, a few hours per shift

Kobe Animal Welfare

Kobe Animal Welfare is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming stray animals. Volunteers can assist with animal care, shelter maintenance, and adoption events. To get involved, you can contact the organization through their website. The time commitment varies, but volunteers are generally expected to commit a few hours per week.

Website: kobeanimalwelfare.org/
Location(s): Kobe Animal Welfare Shelter
Time Commitment: A few hours per week

Kobe International Volunteer Network

The Kobe International Volunteer Network organizes various volunteer activities, including environmental conservation, community support, and cultural exchange events. To become a member, you can register through their website and participate in activities that interest you. The time commitment is flexible and depends on the specific activity.

Website: kivn.org/
Location(s): Various locations in Kobe
Time Commitment: Flexible, depends on the activity

Kobe Red Cross Hospital

The Kobe Red Cross Hospital offers volunteer opportunities in patient support and hospital assistance. Volunteers can help with visiting patients, assisting with events, and providing general support. To get involved, you can contact the hospital's volunteer office. The time commitment is usually a few hours per week.

Website: kobe-rc.jp/
Location(s): Kobe Red Cross Hospital
Time Commitment: A few hours per week

Kobe City Greenery Association

The Kobe City Greenery Association focuses on environmental conservation and urban greening. Volunteers can participate in tree-planting events, park maintenance, and environmental education programs. To volunteer, you can contact the association through their website. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per event.

Website: kobe-midori.or.jp/
Location(s): Various parks and green spaces in Kobe
Time Commitment: A few hours per event

Kobe International House

The Kobe International House provides support services for the international community, including language classes, cultural events, and consultation services. Volunteers can assist with these activities and help with office tasks. To get involved, you can contact the house directly. The time commitment is flexible but usually involves a few hours per week.

Website: kobe-ih.jp/
Location(s): Kobe International House
Time Commitment: A few hours per week

Kobe City Museum

The Kobe City Museum offers volunteer opportunities in museum guiding, event assistance, and educational programs. Volunteers can help visitors explore the museum's collections and participate in cultural events. To volunteer, you can contact the museum directly. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week or event.

Website: city.kobe.lg.jp/culture/culture/organization/museum/
Location(s): Kobe City Museum
Time Commitment: A few hours per week or event

Kobe Community Chest

The Kobe Community Chest is a charity organization that supports various social welfare projects in Kobe. Volunteers can assist with fundraising events, community support activities, and office tasks. To get involved, you can contact the organization through their website. The time commitment is flexible and depends on the specific activity.

Website: kobecc.or.jp/
Location(s): Various locations in Kobe
Time Commitment: Flexible, depends on the activity

Kobe International Community Center

The Kobe International Community Center promotes cultural exchange and provides support services for the international community. Volunteers can assist with language classes, cultural events, and community support services. To get involved, you can contact the center directly. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week.

Website: kicc.jp/
Location(s): Kobe International Community Center
Time Commitment: A few hours per week

Kobe Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution

The Kobe Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution focuses on disaster prevention and education. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, events, and office tasks. To volunteer, you can contact the institution through their website. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week or event.

Website: dri.ne.jp/
Location(s): Kobe Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution
Time Commitment: A few hours per week or event

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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