2025 February Newsletter
All New Program Updates 🌱
Mon, Feb 24, 2025, 2PM
Many families have been affected by the fires, and our community has truly come together in so many ways to support one another. As a small effort to help, we put together 85 craft kits using leftover materials from past workshops. These Koinobori and Hawaiian paper lei kits were donated to Pasadena Japanese Cultural Institute, Pasadena Buddhist Temple, and the Armory Center of the Arts to provide children with a creative outlet and give parents a brief moment of ease. We are grateful to be part of a community that cares so deeply, and our hearts are with everyone impacted.
Special thanks to Youngstown Glove Company for the huge donation of work gloves to aid in the cleanup effort for Pasadena and Altadena.
Leadership in Action Program is in Full Swing
Our teen leadership program has just finished Week 5 (halfway mark) and the 2025 cohort are on great paths of success, as they continue to plan their civil liberties group projects! We have 8 different group projects this year, including (but not limited to) documentaries, books, galleries, and more! Please stay tuned for more info on our Culmination Ceremony on March 29, where our students will present all of their hard work.
Special thanks to all of our community leaders, who come in to inspire and educate our teens. Workshops and tours so far have been led by: Bill Watanabe, Michael and David from Little Tokyo Historical Society, Todd Odagawa, Nikkei Progressives, Michelle Hanabusa from UPRISERS, Carrie Zhang from Asian Mental Health Project, and Dan Kwong. Thank you so much!
Summer Camp 2025: Registration is Here!
We’re thrilled to announce our 2025 Summer Camp! This year, we’re growing our program with two weeks in Gardena (same curriculum) to accommodate for all of our friends on the waitlist last year! Mark your calendars for a summer full of Japanese American culture, fun, and community:
Orange County Buddhist Church: June 23rd - 27th, 2025
Union Church of Los Angeles: July 7th - 11th, 2025
Gardena Buddhist Church: July 14th - 18th, 2025
Gardena Buddhist Church: July 21st - 25th, 2025
First Presbyterian Church Altadena (TBD*): July 28th - August 1st, 2025
West Los Angeles United Methodist Church: August 4th - 8th, 2025
We can’t wait to see you there! Early bird sale ends April 1st.
Calling for Summer Camp Counselors!
Kizuna Summer Camps 2025 is looking for high school students and college students to join our team! If you’re ready to make an impact, gain leadership skills, and have an unforgettable summer, this is your chance! Secure your spot today since we have limited space for Jr. Counselors at our DTLA, Pasadena, & WLA locations.
Applications for 2025 are now open! Deadline to apply is April 12th, 2025.
Board Fellowship: New Collaboration & Open Nominations
After running two concurrent Board Fellowship style programs year after year, Kizuna and Asian American Professional Association have joined forces in 2025!
The purpose of the Board Fellowship Program is to provide adults and young adults with the skills, networks, and experiences to successfully be involved in the Japanese American community. This program will provide education in skills and knowledge for nonprofit board members, mentorship by actual boards of directors, and involvement in community events & activities.
Nomination and Registration for 2025 Board Fellowship has opened! Deadline to Apply/Nominate is March 7th
Nikkei Community Internship Applications are now open!
The Nikkei Community Internship (NCI) is an amazing opportunity for college students to deepen their connection to the Japanese American community while making a real impact in our historic Japantowns of Los Angeles, San Jose, and San Francisco. This paid, 8-week summer program fosters cultural awareness and professional development, helping the next generation carry forward our community’s rich legacy.
Applications for 2025 are now open! Deadline to apply is April 4th, 2025.
Community News!
Nellita’s Craft Upcoming Workshops!
Join Nellita’s Craft in
Little Tokyo for March workshops! All supplies are provided Just bring yourself! Buy your tickets with the button below.
248 East 1st Street, Los Angeles, California 90012
