Natsumi for J-Sei!

So here we are at the last stretch of a month of giving for an organization I joined relatively recently.  We succeeded in hitting our goal but I still want to reach out to you - things have not changed much from the way I ran 100 yard dashes in middle school.  Maybe this feels redundant or too late but I also want to cross the line strong.

If you are viewing this, it is because you are a person that I believe knows me.  Well enough.  I am not sure we have gotten to speak recently, but in short, I have had the incredible opportunity to become involved in the J-Sei community.  The pandemic, the social climate, all made me aware that I needed to be a part of something that was about shared values, a regenerative community and honouring the stories of people and places I cared for deeply.  People and places that may often be overlooked.  A place that felt safe because of the ways in which we are “seen” but also in the ways we consider one another.   This was the grounded sound place.  

An organization dedicated to providing senior services and cultural programs rooted in Nikkei traditions, this organization will celebrate its 50th year this year.   I can not say enough about the profound ways in which I have been moved by the work of this community (just give a few minutes with me in person and I can talk your ear off), but this is a non-profit like no other.  For the jaded grown-up-in-the-Bay-Area-around-millions-of-non-profits person that I am, I have been continuously surprised by the way in which J-Sei operates and the caliber of phenomenal people that make up this community.  The good work feels truly regenerative and a result of this brilliant spirit.

As you may know about me, I am a pursuer of relationships and connections especially as a way in which to engage with the world and embody my values.  I started as a volunteer in the kitchen (see video) where I helped pack the lovingly made meals for the seniors.  I have since met so many interesting people with rich stories and varied backgrounds.  Several surprises of people I knew in a different capacity appearing again in my life, doing work together side by side.  It is mutual aid in action and a place that celebrates one another in the different phases of our lives.  

Please consider giving so that the organization can continue providing important services and strengthening connections among us.  Also, 5 anonymous donors have offered a dollar for dollar match up to $50,000 so every gift that is made will be doubled.  

As I have come to believe in most things, all of the work and joy is right in front of us and all around us.  We just need to take the time to look closer and more thoroughly.

I look forward to participating in this community together with you in some way-  Thank you~!

Yours.

Natsumi Iimura