#Japan #Tokyo #EPO #COCOLON

EPO Non-Profit Organization Achieves Major Recognition

On January 28, 2026, the EPO (Empowerment and Participation Organization) was honored with the Grand Prize in the local category of the Tokyo Women's Empowerment Award, presented by Governor Yuriko Koike. This recognition comes as a result of its impactful programs that provide daytime support for children with severe disabilities and create a community where children, families, and supporters can connect in safe and engaging environments.

Background of EPO

Founded in Edogawa, Tokyo, EPO is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for families with children who have severe physical and mental disabilities. Operating since 2016, EPO provides essential daytime support through their child development service, ‘Cocone,’ where a therapeutic and nurturing environment allows children to engage in play and learning similar to that found in regular preschools.

EPO has developed structured support systems that adapt to the range of medical needs these children require. Services include personalized transport to and from the facility, as well as regular family consultations that foster healthy inter-family interactions and destigmatize care-giving responsibilities.

Currently, the program has offered services to over 200 children, ensuring that all parents can entrust their children to a supportive environment. This initiative significantly lightens the emotional burden families often face, facilitating a balance in familial responsibilities.

COCOLON: Building Connections

Additionally, EPO runs a hybrid community called ‘COCOLON’ designed for children with severe disabilities, their families, and support personnel to freely engage in activities and build relationships. COCOLON holds various events and seminars, aiming to dismantle barriers that hinder these children from enjoying equal developmental opportunities, regardless of their circumstances.

In 2024 alone, COCOLON organized 34 events, attracting 997 participants, including 439 children. The community strives to create experiences that families with disabilities can participate in comfortably, promoting socialization and collective childhood experiences. COCOLON prioritizes transforming the rhetoric surrounding disabilities, allowing families to access activities perceived as ‘normal’ for broader populations.

Recognition and Future Commitment

During the award ceremony, Governor Koike commended EPO for creating a supportive infrastructure that significantly contributes to growing the potential of medically dependent children. Specific appreciation was given to EPO’s proactive approach in mitigating the psychological and social isolation that caregivers experience, as well as the encompassing forms of support that cater not just to children, but also uplift entire families.

EPO’s CEO, Eriko Saito, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, 'Receiving the Tokyo Women’s Empowerment Award is an honor that reinforces our commitment to support children and families through our programs at both Cocone and COCOLON. This acknowledgment motivates us towards continued advocacy for creating inclusive communities where parenting and social participation is accessible for everyone.'

EPO seeks to inspire a collaborative environment that uplifts families while encouraging public and private partnerships to further expand their reach and services.

For more insights on EPO and its community initiatives, visit Cocone and COCOLON.