Congratulations to Cultural & Community Coordinator, Kay Kawaguchi, and JASC Board Vice President & Secretary, Mike Tanimura, on receiving this well deserved recognition for your dedicated community service to Japanese and Americans! Read the official press release at jasc-chicago.org/2024-fmc

Congratulations volunteers on an amazing job ensuring a wonderful picnic for all! More than 500 people attended enjoying face painting, karaoke, roast pig, hamburgers, hot dogs, shaved ice, and many delicious treats from the community food table. Save the date for next year - Saturday, August 2, 2025. 

Hisako’s House

Robyn Mineko Williams and Artists (RMW&A) presents Hisako’s House, the compelling, immersive performance-based experience developed by artist, RMW&A director and recipient of the Walder Foundation Platform Award, Robyn Mineko Williams from August 16-25, 2024. Tickets start at $32 and are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hisakos-house-by-robyn-mineko-williams-and-artists-tickets-928068035477. JASC Members are eligible for a 15% discounted ticket rate, using the code FAMILY.

Hosted in the 1950’s mid-century home in Lombard, IL where Williams’ grandmother, Nancy Hisako Nishimura and family lived and gathered for decades, the 50-minute cinematic, promenade-style work features renowned dance artists Isaac Aoki, Jesse Obremski, Jie-Hung Connie Shiau, and Stephanie Terasaki. Music and soundscapes for Hisako’s House are composed by acclaimed Chicago instrumentalist and musician Macie Stewart. On August 24, RMW&A offers an extended multi-sensory experience, pairing the performance with a post-show family style meal of Japanese American comfort food with the artists. Please email operations@jasc-chicago.org to reserve your spot for the 8/24 event.

JASC is hiring additional staff for our programs department.

Program Coordinator plans, organizes, and oversees cultural and community programs aimed at serving the Japanese American community and other diverse populations. The Program Coordinator ensures that all programs run smoothly, meet the community's needs, and align with the organization's mission of fostering a better understanding of the Japanese American experience and promoting well-being across generations.

Donguri Kai instructors teach Japanese language and culture to our K-12th grade students through online and in person classes. Both lead teachers and those interested in occasionally substituting are welcome to apply. Details on our Opportunities webpage. To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to jascinfo@jasc-chicago.org.

Donguri Kai fall schedules will be released soon. Donguri Kai is an online and in-person Japanese language program for children in K - 6th grade in beginner, elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels. New classes offerings will include classes for high school students. Email Jenn if you're interested in getting notified by email when registration opens.

Advanced conversation class will begin a new session today, Thursday, August 8, 2024. Join for 8 classes; class fee is $135 for JASC members and $165 for non-members. Kay Kawaguchi can help determine which level is best suited 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.

Thinking about joining JASC as a member? There's no time better than now! JASC will soon be offering members only event, including an early access opportunity to the 5700 N Lincoln Grand Opening (coming later this year).

JASC membership benefits include discounted rates for classes, programs, and eligibility for JASC scholarships & membership on our Board of Directors.

For more information, click on our Memberships page or email jascinfo@jasc-chicago.org.

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

For updates on Programming, Adult Day Services, & Legacy Center, please go to our website.

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