#Japan #community projects #Hino #Hino City #Youth Participation

Introduction

In a bold move to foster collaboration between youth and their community, Hino City, led by Mayor Soushi Koga, has launched the second phase of the "Dream Realization Program". This groundbreaking initiative aims to empower participants aged 29 and under to brainstorm solutions to local challenges and take action effective May 2025.

Program Overview

The Dream Realization Program invites young participants to become "Dream Realization Trainees". They will connect their personal interests with pressing community questions, leading to the development of innovative project proposals. The program not only encourages individual creativity but also emphasizes the importance of community engagement in shaping the future.

Starting from July 7, the initiative invites public contributions as a first step toward the project's execution phase. Community members are encouraged to share their feedback through Hino City's digital platform, facilitating the refinement of project concepts.

Citizen Contributions

While focused on receiving input from local residents, the submission process is open to anyone interested in contributing ideas. This approach broadens the pool of perspectives and fosters a rich dialogue that will enhance the overall quality of the proposed projects.

Public access to the submission and voting platform is available to all; however, contributions require account registration to ensure a structured process and to maintain an organized feedback loop.

Hino City Regional Co-Creation Platform

This online hub serves as a conduit for collecting diverse voices and ideas, allowing community members to collaborate and inspire each other. The goal is to transform accumulated insights into actionable projects that elevate community engagement and action.

Project Proposals

Three unique project ideas have emerged from workshops and team meetings, each targeting distinct aspects of community life:

Team A: Place-Making Group

Project Name: "Opening A Little Room for Me in the Neighborhood"

The initiative aims to install mini exhibition boxes in strategic locations like shopping malls and train stations, allowing people to showcase their creativity. By transforming public spaces into interactive areas, the project seeks to enrich the community experience and foster meaningful connections among residents.

Team B: Intergenerational Solidarity & Safety Net Group

Project Name: "Connecting Map 116 (Tentative)"

This project plans to establish monthly potluck dinners open to various generations, from students to seniors. It aims to create a platform where individuals can seek help and strengthen community ties, making living in Hino more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Team C: Hometown Branding Group

Project Name: "Hino City Buzz Contest"

This participatory contest invites residents and local businesses to submit ideas for generating buzz around Hino City. Beyond simply raising awareness, the aim is to foster a deep love for the city, encouraging civic pride through shared stories and experiences.

Upcoming Activities

1. Online Citizen Feedback & Voting: Open until August 8. Participants can review proposed projects and provide input on the digital platform.
2. Public Project Briefing: Scheduled for August 26 from 19:00 to 21:00 at the Tama-dai no Mori Industrial Collaboration Center PlanT. This will be an opportunity for community members to voice their opinions in-person.
3. Crowdfunding Campaign: Planned for late August to mid-September, to raise funds for project execution and foster community ties.
4. Pilot Experiments in the Community: Expected to launch in the fall, showcasing real-time project implementations.

Conclusion

The second phase of Hino City's Dream Realization Program exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to community building, combining youth innovation with active citizen participation. It emphasizes the belief that together, through collaborative effort, we can bring our dreams to fruition and create a vibrant future for Hino City.