JCCCNC Delegation Meets With Ambassador Roos

October 26, 2011

U.S. Ambassador John Roos met today with an 18-member delegation of goodwill ambassadors from the United States, including former Olympic skater Kristi Yamaguchi and a number of well-known entertainers from San Francisco and Hawaii, who traveled to Japan to bring a message of hope as the country rebuilds from the devastating events of March 11.

The delegation's visit was sponsored by the Northern Japan Earthquake Relief Fund, established by the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC).

Among other projects, the JCCCNC has pledged $250,000 to support TOMODACHI, a public-private partnership led by the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo and the U.S.-Japan Council to invest in Japan's next generation and build ties of friendship between Japan and the United States. JCCCNC funds for TOMODACHI will be focused on bringing back baseball - a sport equally well-loved in both Japan and the United States - to the children of Tohoku.

Paul Osaki, Executive Director of the JCCCNC, said "Our delegation is pleased to be here in Japan and to spread the message of hope and strength. We are happy to be able to demonstrate our support for Japan by being here and by being part of TOMODACHI."

Ambassador Roos said, "It is a pleasure to welcome this delegation to Japan and we appreciate all they are doing on behalf of the people of Tohoku. Their visit helps to highlight the strong bonds of friendship between the United States and Japan, which is what TOMODACHI is all about."

During their visit to Japan, the delegation will be traveling to Iwaki, Kesennuma, Sendai and Ishinomaki. Additional information about the delegation and its activities can be viewed at kokoro4japan.org.