Youth Welfare Center ( Seishonen Fukushi Center )

Customs celebrating coming of age seem to be found all over the world.

In Japan, local governments typically hold Coming of Age Ceremonies on the second Monday of January each year, inviting young people who grew up in the area and have turned 20 or will turn 20. These ceremonies mark the new adults' recognition of their responsibilities as members of society and their beginnings as independent members of society.

We, Youth Welfare Center (WFC) also holds Coming of Age Ceremonies for children who spent part of their youth at our facilities and have turned 20 or will turn 20. This year, the 18th Coming of Age Ceremony was held on Saturday, January 10th, at the Art Hotel Nippori Lungwood, with 16 new adults in attendance.

Prior to the ceremony, volunteers helped the 16 new adults dress in gorgeous kimonos and youthful suits, did their hair and makeup, and took commemorative photos. Then, dressed in their finest attire, the 16 new adults made their way to the stage, where the ceremony kicked off with a congratulatory address from the Chairman of WFC. She congratulated the new adults on their healthy growth, wished them bright futures, and thanked the staff who have supported them. Next, letters of appreciation were presented to individuals and organizations who have been supporting WFC's activities over the years.

Next, each new adult was presented with commemorative gifts from the Akio Kaneshima Fund, established for the Coming-of-Age Ceremony, commemorative gifts from companies and organizations, and a Japanese seal from WFC. The new adults joyfully accepted the heavy paper bags filled with many commemorative gifts.

Next, it was finally time for each new adult to give a speech. They shared their memories of their time at the facility, their gratitude to the staff and others involved, their current situation, and their future aspirations. Each one received thunderous applause.
The new adults left the stage and dispersed to round tables where the staff and others who had looked after them were waiting, and the celebratory feast began. During the celebration, the new adults and those involved mingled harmoniously. A slideshow of memorable photos from their time at the facility and congratulatory messages from the staff was also shown, and everyone shared their joy.

This event is a testament to the support of many people, including donors from overseas. WFC would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude once again and ask for continued support.