Hello! I’m Ayaka, currently working with the Canadian non-profit organization LOVE. At LOVE, we often visit local high schools and group homes to deliver programs, but we also spend a lot of time working in the office to prepare for workshops and hold meetings.

The LOVE office is not just a place where staff work; it is designed to be an environment where we can always support youth. Today, I would like to introduce you to the LOVE office.

Essential Supplies Always Available

The LOVE office is a warm and welcoming space where youth can drop by anytime. Shelves in the hallway are stocked with essentials like sanitary products, basic necessities, and some food items (such as pasta and canned goods). If needed, youth can take these items home for free.

Job Information Board

At the LOVE office, we post part-time job and volunteer opportunities suitable for youth on a bulletin board. We also provide support such as resume reviews and interview preparation upon Request.

Below the job board, there is a table displaying LOVE materials and brochures showcasing art pieces created by youth in past programs. For those visiting the LOVE office for the first time, these materials offer a quick and easy way to learn more about our work.

Thursday Pop-Up Activities

Every Thursday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, the LOVE office hosts free activities for youth. With a different theme each week, these activities provide a great opportunity for youth from different schools and neighborhoods to connect with each other and with our staff.

Examples of past activities include printmaking, Christmas ornament crafting, camera workshops, tote bag making, and self-care workshops. The range of activities is diverse and engaging.

During the fall Pop-Up event, we created art crafts using autumn leaves with the youth.

On another day, we held a candle painting activity.

In this way, the LOVE office is a space where youth can drop by, seek advice, and enjoy activities together. We also host seasonal events, such as Halloween and Holiday celebrations, complete with themed decorations around the office.

I hope that in Japan, we can also create environments where youth can easily drop in, interact with each other, and enjoy engaging with staff in a supportive and fun atmosphere.

That concludes my introduction to the LOVE office. Thank you for reading!