#Japan #Tokyo #Social Issues #MetLife Foundation

MetLife Foundation's Impact in Japan

MetLife Foundation, through the leadership of Dirk Osteen, the President and CEO of MetLife Insurance Japan, has announced its generous commitment of approximately $1.35 million to support five organizations in Japan that are addressing significant social challenges. These challenges include issues related to the aging population, educational inequality, community revitalization, and environmental conservation. This funding decision aligns with the foundation's mission to foster a society where everyone can achieve economic self-sufficiency and expand future prospects.

In global initiatives, MetLife Foundation has outlined three strategic focus areas: Economic Empowerment, Financial Health, and Sustainable Communities. These pillars guide their support to various organizations worldwide, including the five selected in Japan. By the end of 2025, the foundation will begin providing financial backing for projects aimed at resolving critical issues faced by society. MetLife has also expressed its commitment to engage its employees in volunteer activities to foster collaboration with these organizations, ensuring continued support beyond just financial contributions.

The Beneficiary Organizations

The following organizations will receive grant funding from the MetLife Foundation:

• - The University of Tokyo (National University Corporation): This esteemed institution will engage in joint research aimed at preventing frailty and dementia, as part of efforts to address the challenges of Japan’s super-aged society.

• - NPO Waffle: This organization focuses on reducing the gender gap in Japan’s technology sector, providing educational programs for middle and high school students as well as university students.

• - NPO Kids Door: This organization implements career education programs tailored for high school students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, aiming to support their future economic independence.

• - NPO Ethic: In regions facing issues such as an aging population and declining birth rates, Ethic works to train local leaders who can spearhead solutions to these challenges.

• - Japan Environmental Education Forum (JEEF): This body will receive support for environmental conservation activities in cities such as Osaki in Miyagi Prefecture and Unzen in Nagasaki Prefecture.

Japan is grappling with a complex interplay of social issues including an aging population, declining birth rates, child poverty, and disparities in education and gender. The MetLife Foundation, along with MetLife Insurance Japan, actively collaborates with NGOs, local governments, and educational as well as research institutions to support the elderly and children, create educational opportunities, address community concerns, and promote environmental conservation.

As a life insurance company dedicated to accompanying individuals throughout their lives, MetLife aims to enhance the prospects and possibilities available to everyone. The foundation reaffirms its commitment to social contribution activities through strategic partnerships and grassroots initiatives.

About MetLife Insurance Japan

MetLife Insurance became Japan's first foreign life insurance company in 1973 and is now a leading entity under the MetLife brand. The company remains devoted to providing optimal coverage by closely understanding and catering to customer needs through diverse sales channels aimed at individuals and corporations alike. For more information, visit www.metlife.co.jp.

About MetLife Foundation

Founded in 1976, MetLife Foundation continues the tradition of deep connection and contribution to society that MetLife values. The foundation works in collaboration with non-profit organizations and encourages employee volunteer activities to achieve economic fluidity in society. Over the last fifty years, MetLife Foundation has committed over $1 billion to support initiatives aligned with its three focus areas: Economic Empowerment, Financial Health, and Sustainable Communities. For additional details, visit www.MetLife.org.