#Japan #Free the Children #Social Issues #Take Action Camp #Gotemba

Take Action Camp Japan 2026

Have you ever wanted to make a difference in the world but weren’t sure where to start? The Take Action Camp is an excellent opportunity for middle and high school students across Japan to engage with pressing social issues and learn how to be proactive leaders in their communities. Organized by Free The Children Japan, this event will take place from August 17 to 20, 2026, at the National Central Youth Exchange Center in Gotemba, Shizuoka Prefecture.

Camp Overview

The Take Action Camp is a hands-on program that has been running since 2000, with more than 1,200 participants benefiting from it. During this four-day camp, attendees will study various domestic and international social issues, identify causes they are passionate about, and develop actionable plans to address them. Through collaborative work with peers from across the country, participants will enhance their self-awareness, initiative, and communication skills, essential for driving meaningful social change.

In 2024, this initiative received the Hakuhodo Award, recognizing its impact on youth empowerment and societal engagement. The camp focuses on a range of themes, including the environment, poverty, peace and conflict, gender issues, discrimination, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

What to Expect

Learning

Participants will explore social issues from local to global perspectives. Interactive workshops and group activities will guide them in articulating their own opinions while deepening their understanding through peer discussions. The camp emphasizes active learning instead of passive information reception, inspiring a mentality of taking informed action.

Interaction

Working in small groups of 8 to 10, participants will engage deeply with fellow campers. University student facilitators will accompany them throughout the camp, fostering an atmosphere where everyone feels safe to express their thoughts and ideas. This approach ensures a rich exchange of perspectives, transcending age and school year.

A Legacy of Leadership

The camp’s philosophy stems from Craig Kielburger, who founded Free The Children at the age of 12. His journey has sparked significant movements among youth worldwide, including in Japan, where young individuals have taken steps towards addressing societal challenges like poverty and environmental issues. The Take Action Camp empowers children and teens to become agents of change, encouraging them to continually ask, “What can I do?” even after the camp ends.

Target Audience

This program is tailored for students who are interested in social issues but may feel uncertain about how to take the first step. It’s perfect for those who wish to engage in volunteerism, connect with like-minded individuals, and enjoy listening and conversing about societal matters.

Testimonials from Participants

• - 6th Grader: “I was inspired to take action by sharing time with friends of different ages and nationalities. I’m now ready to use my skills for volunteer activities.”
• - 7th Grader: “At school, discussions often feel restrained. Here, the environment encourages everyone to share their opinions freely!”
• - 9th Grader: “Participating helped me discover my goals and realize my own capabilities. I feel more confident to act moving forward.”
• - 12th Grader: “Initially unsure about the diverse age groups, I found everyone engaged in meaningful exchanges regardless of age, creating a valuable experience.”

Parent Feedback

Parents have praised the camp for providing enriching experiences that broaden their children's horizons. One mother noted how her daughter was uncertain at first but returned home excited and eager for more. Another parent recognized the camp as an exceptional opportunity to articulate thoughts and engage in problem-solving — experiences that are often hard to come by in traditional school settings.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Recognizing that some families may face financial barriers to participation, the Take Action Camp offers multiple scholarship options:
1. Partial Scholarship - Covers part of the camp fee and travel costs.
2. Full Scholarship - Available for families in financial distress.

Each scholarship application requires applicants to express their motivation for attending and their specific needs for support. This ensures that even those facing economic difficulties can participate and benefit from the program.

Registration Details

• - Dates: August 17 – 20, 2026
• - Location: National Central Youth Exchange Center, Gotemba, Shizuoka Prefecture
• - Cost: 63,800 JPY (with options for scholarships)
• - Eligibility: Open to students from 5th to 12th grade
• - Application Deadline: General registration by July 31, 2026; scholarship applications by June 7, 2026

Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this transformative experience! For further details and to register, visit the Free The Children Japan website. Join us to learn, grow, and initiate change!