Empowering Youth in Care Homes Through Nature

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Thanks to your generosity through GlobalGiving, Mirai no Mori has continued to bring children living in care homes across Japan out into nature this spring and summer. Here's what your support made possible in May, June, and July.

May: Kikori (Lumberjack) Program
In May, around 40 youth gathered to take care of the ecosystem by clearing an overgrown bamboo forest. Working in teams, campers learned to safely use handsaws and shearing scissors, practicing courage and responsibility as they worked. For many, it was a new way to connect with the outdoors, taking home a hand-made bamboo souvenir alongside a deeper sense of confidence

June: Nature Crafts Program
In June, around 35 youth spent a rainy-season day immersed in creativity. Campers built nature art from rocks, twigs, and leaves, then crafted their own omamori-inspired keepsakes using a variety of materials such as felt, pipe cleaners, bells, beads and yarn.

July: Hiking Program
In July, around 45 youth set out on a 4km trail choosing between a challenging route and a slower-paced one focused on the five senses. Campers showed real teamwork on the trail, then cooled off together at the riverbank afterward. For several, it was their very first hike!

Growing Our Older Youth: LITs and Graduates
Our Leaders in Training (LITs)- high school youth who've grown up through Mirai no Mori- join every program on the support side, building leadership and mentorship skills in real time. Additionally this spring, our graduates- young adults who have aged out of care- also stepped into the spotlight: sharing their journeys at a corporate speaking event, delivering English speeches, and returning to give us direct feedback on our programs.

With these three programs behind us, we are off to summer camp, our most impactful program of the year, expecting around 100 youths across three 5-day sessions. Thank you for making all of this possible.

With gratitude,

Mirai no Mori