ASIJ delivers school desks to schools that lost everything in Ishinomaki City. TAI DIRKSE
The ASIJ community around the world has truly come together to do what it can to help those affected by the earthquake and tsunami. ASIJ prides itself on being highly dedicated to service year-round, but the devastation in the north of Japan has called on the school community to go above and beyond to dedicate themselves to helping the country they feel so fortunate to live in.
ASIJ alumni quickly spearheaded fundraising efforts around the world and have already given over $2 million to the relief efforts through various initiatives. Marcus and Andrew Ogawa challenged the community to donate to the Red Cross and have offered to match any gifts given up to $500,000 — they have already surpassed their $1 million target.
ASIJ has also launched a Japan Relief Fund that will support its own direct relief efforts. The ASIJ community and friends, including international schools and organizations from all over the world, have contributed almost $40,000 directly into the Relief Fund. Student groups throughout the school are engaged in activities ranging from fundraising drives to charity shows and Futsal tournaments. The PTA’s Spring Gala auction — which was scheduled for the day after the earthquake — was rescheduled for May 1 and held in support of the Relief Fund.
With the money raised already, ASIJ has purchased 400 desks and some school supplies for four elementary and junior high schools in Ishinomaki City that lost everything. Two faculty and staff relief trips to Tagajo and Kesenuma to deliver specific supplies and cook dinner for over 360 people were also funded. For many survivors it was their first hot meal in a couple of weeks. Another group of 28 ASIJ employees are planning to travel to Tagajo and volunteer to clean up some houses so that residents can move back into their homes. Long-term, ASIJ hopes to identify schools in the Fukushima and/or Miyagi areas to which they can provide assistance in rebuilding efforts.
At ASIJ, people believe in the school’s mission of “developing compassionate, inquisitive learners prepared for global responsibilities.” There will never be a better time than now to live that mission and join hands with others. ASIJ thanks everyone in their community who is helping to achieve this. — MATT WILCE
