The Board of Directors of the Japanese American Service Committee (JASC) has opened a search for the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Later this year, JASC will be fulfilling its long-time dream of moving into a newly renovated building that will create a destination center for the community. JASC’s new home will be in the West Ridge neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois at 5700 N. Lincoln Avenue. 

JASC is seeking a talented executive leader capable of positioning the organization for the future by setting the vision, strategy, and plans; then, engaging people to act and participate. This individual will become a key leader in the community at large, and work with staff, board, funders, and stakeholders across academia, government, private sector, the arts, and other community organizations. To apply or learn more, visit our website: https://jasc-chicago.org/about-us/opportunities/

Are you an advanced Japanese speaker looking for a way to maintain or refresh your skills? Join the Advanced Conversation Class beginning on Thursday, May 23. Class is online (Zoom) from 6 – 7 pm. All language classes are online via Zoom until we move into the new building.

Kay Kawaguchi can help determine which of our youth or adult classes would be best for you. Reach her at the JASC office, (773) 275-0097, ext. 226, or by email classes@jasc-chicago.org. JASC Language Classes can be joined at any time. Take a trial class at no cost. For full schedules and details click here.

Congratulations to the Chicago Cohort of Keilyn Kurimitsu, Jonah Swenson, and Jake Rohdes who joined more than 35 other fellows from six other organizations based across the nation for a full schedule of panel presentations, small group discussions, study tours, and much more over April 25 to April 28.

Our Chicago Torchbearer Fellows will collaborate on a local project until next fall when there will be a second gathering of the National Torchbearers in Denver for cohort presentations and further programming. More updates on the fellows and their project coming soon.

It's official - we have moved!

Until our new building is ready, please note the following updates:

• Our 4427 N. Clark St. office will be closed to the public. JASC staff will be working remotely. To reach us, you can email jascinfo@jasc-chicago.org.
• Our mail will be forwarded to a P.O. Box 25380, Chicago, IL 60625
• For questions about mailing checks & donations, please reach out to development@jasc-chicago.org

Programming Updates:

• Adult Day Services will be held at the Buddhist Temple of Chicago on 1151 W Leland Ave beginning the end of March.
• Saturday in person classes for Tampopo Kai will be held at Ravenswood Fellowship UMC on 4511 N. Hermitage Ave beginning March 2nd. Two class sessions will be offered from 9:00-10:00 and 10:15-11:15 AM.
• Saturday in person classes for Donguri Kai Level 1 will be held at Chase Park Fieldhouse, 4701 N. Ashland Ave beginning April 18, 2024. Spots for Spring Session are open and filling up fast!
• Japanese Conversation Tables from April onwards will be held at Ravenswood Fellowship UMC. The next Japanese Conversation Table will be on Thursday, April 11th.
• Our spring fundraiser, Cranes & Cocktails, is scheduled for May 16, 2024 at Artifact Events. We hope you can join us!

Legacy Center Updates:

• The Legacy Center is temporarily suspending services. Until further notice, we are unable to accommodate any research appointment requests, reference requests, donation requests, exhibit/loan requests, or outreach programming requests. Messages left by phone or email will not receive a reply.
• Full services will resume after the move has been completed. There is currently no estimated re-opening date, but this page will be updated as more information becomes available regarding JASC’s renovation/relocation project.

Thank you for your patience and understanding! For any moving questions, please contact operations@jasc-chicago.org.