#Japan #community support #Yokohama #Citizen Activity Program #Palsystem Kanagawa

Supporting Local Community Initiatives: The 26th Citizen Activity Support Program in Kanagawa

The Palsystem Kanagawa Cooperative, located in Yokohama's Kohoku district, is launching its 26th round of recruitment for its Citizen Activity Support Program starting from July 21 to August 22. This program aims to provide financial assistance to local organizations dedicated to fostering dynamic community development throughout Kanagawa Prefecture.

Over the years, the program has significantly impacted the region, with funds distributed exceeding 100 million yen by this year, benefiting 478 organizations. This initiative is open to various entities including volunteer groups, civic organizations, and NPOs operating within Kanagawa, regardless of their affiliation with Palsystem. Each organization can apply for funding up to 300,000 yen, contributing to a total pool of 4 million yen set for the 2025 fiscal year.

The selection of supporting organizations is determined by a committee comprising Palsystem board members and knowledgeable community members. Those organizations receiving the Citizen Activity Support Fund will also have the opportunity to benefit from direct contributions from users, which are termed “support funds.” This encourages community engagement and expresses the users' goodwill towards supported initiatives.

Established in 2000, the program was created to channel surplus funds generated from Palsystem's business operations back into the community. Since its inception, it has disbursed a total of 97.9 million yen, thereby aiding 478 organizations aiming to implement projects that benefit local residents and enhance social cohesion.

In recent years, Japan has faced rising economic disparities exacerbated by persistent inflation. These challenges have led to increased poverty rates among youth and social isolation of the elderly, highlighting the need for robust community support to address the needs of vulnerable populations. The discrepancies in access to resources and information technologies are also emerging social issues that this program aims to tackle by empowering localized organizations to maintain their activities and address complex societal challenges effectively.

Overview of the 26th Citizen Activity Support Program

Financial Assistance for Community Activities

The program accepts applications from civic groups which will be reviewed by a panel of directors, users, and experts to determine eligible recipients of the grants.

Support Funds from Palsystem Users

Organizations that successfully apply for the Civic Activity Support Fund may also receive direct financial contributions from Palsystem users, fostering a culture of support and collaboration.

Application Guidelines (Excerpt)

• - Targeting volunteer groups, civic organizations, NPOs operating mainly in Kanagawa Prefecture.
• - Organizations must have a base of activity in Kanagawa and engage in continual community support initiatives, including disaster response activities.
• - Applications require involvement from at least three individuals (grants are limited to two times per organization).
• - No requirement for applicants to be Palsystem members.

Application Period

• - Submission Dates: July 21 (Monday) to August 22 (Friday), 2025
• - Grant Use Period: Activities slated for funding must occur between January 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026.

Palsystem Kanagawa aims to realize its 2030 vision of creating inclusive communities where everyone respects and supports one another's lives. The cooperative continues to advocate for and enhance the activities of autonomous civil groups, ensuring that communities thrive in a safe environment.

For details on the previous year's program and to participate in upcoming events, please visit the following links:

• - 25th Citizen Activity Support Program Report
• - 26th Citizen Activity Support Program Application Guidelines

With 2025 being International Cooperative Year, Palsystem Kanagawa strives to promote cooperative principles and community engagement for a sustainable future.