Arlene Swinderman for J-Sei

When I joined the board of J-Sei in 2011, the organization was in a period of reorganization, growth, and bold visioning. Founded in 1971 to serve first- and second-generation Nikkei seniors, J-Sei provided vital support through programs including congregate and home-delivered meals, case management, a caregiver registry, Friendly Visitor services, and an Assisted Living Home — all while operating out of a rented church and a small administrative office in Berkeley.

At that time, we were challenged to imagine a future that included a permanent home: a dedicated East Bay hub where J-Sei could expand services across the full continuum of care for seniors, support families, and serve all generations of the Nikkei community.

After serving eight years on the board and stepping away from my career in 2021, I was honored to join the J-Sei staff in 2024. Today, I have the privilege of assessing clients receiving home-delivered meals, connecting countless community members seeking nutrition support, and interacting with seniors who attend our weekly congregate meals.

I’ve experienced J-Sei from many perspectives — as a board member witnessing years of planning become reality in our Emeryville center, as a community member watching the organization’s reach and impact grow, and now as a staff member working alongside passionate colleagues and volunteers who bring that original vision to life every day.

Today, J-Sei’s building is filled with vibrant community and cultural programming that serves multigenerational and diverse communities while continuing to prioritize seniors and food access for those most in need.

As J-Sei continues to grow and evolve, community support is more important than ever.

In celebration of Asian Pacific Heritage Month, the Asian Pacific Fund is sponsoring this campaign, and all donations made by the end of May will be matched.

Please join me in supporting J-Sei and its enduring legacy of caring for our community and seniors. Thank you sincerely for your consideration and generosity.