The tour was inspired by several Japanese Canadian survivors who wished to revisit the former wartime self-supporting communities of East Lillooet, Bridge River and Minto. At the same time, Tonari Gumi Executive Director Masako Arima saw an opportunity to broaden the experience by including learning opportunities about the history and culture of the First Nations communities in the region. Several participants had strong personal connections to the area. Mas Kitagawa and his family spent three years in Bridge River and four years in Vernon during and after the war. Ken Yada and his family grew up in Bridge River and operated two stores in Lillooet, while Ed Hayashi had early post-war work experience in the Bridge River and Minto areas.

Travelling in three vehicles, the group made its first stop at 18 Mile Ranch, a scenic property overlooking the Fraser River near Lytton. Thanks to the generosity of the owners and a connection made through a friend of Masako Arima, participants enjoyed a relaxing break in a beautiful setting where few suitable rest stops are available for larger groups. The group then visited the East Lillooet Memorial Gardens, overlooking the site of the former wartime community. A special highlight occurred when Mas Kitagawa discovered a childhood photograph of himself displayed on one of the interpretive panels. The memorial, dedicated in 2025, was made possible through the efforts of former East Lillooet residents led by the late Laura Saimoto.

In Lillooet, participants enjoyed lunch before visiting Miyazaki House, home and medical office of Dr. Masajiro Miyazaki. Local guide Mariko Kage shared the remarkable story of how Dr. Miyazaki became Lillooet’s only physician in 1944 and helped break down racial barriers through his compassion and dedicated service to local residents, Japanese Canadians and First Nations communities.

Participants also learned how baseball helped build relationships between Japanese Canadians and the wider community. Regular games between local residents and Japanese Canadian players gradually reduced social barriers and encouraged greater understanding and acceptance.

The trip was especially meaningful for the Yada family, who revisited many familiar places and even had the unexpected opportunity to connect with a relative they had never met before.

On the second day, the group travelled toward Vancouver, stopping at the Lillooet First Nation Centre to learn more about Indigenous culture and history. Although the gift shop was officially closed, staff kindly opened it for the group, allowing participants to purchase unique local crafts and souvenirs.

The tour highlighted how understanding, kindness and shared experiences can bring communities together. Just as Japanese Canadians and local residents were able to overcome prejudice and build mutual respect, participants reflected on the importance of ongoing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and the role all communities can play in fostering stronger relationships.

Tonari Gumi hopes future Social Club activities will continue to promote cultural understanding, friendship and community connections. Our next Social Club excursion will take place on October 3, when we travel to Victoria for the dedication ceremony of the Japanese Canadian Internment Monument. We encourage everyone interested to register early.

Author: David Iwaasa

Tonari Gumi Outing Report – Sea to Sky Gondola

On June 16, we enjoyed a Tonari Gumi outing to the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish. We were fortunate to have a clear, sunny day and were able to fully enjoy the beautiful scenery of British Columbia.

On the way, we stopped at Porteau Cove Provincial Park and Shannon Falls Provincial Park. Participants enjoyed the stunning ocean and mountain views, fresh air and the refreshing mist and “negative ions” from the waterfall.

At the Sea to Sky Gondola, we took the gondola up to the summit, enjoyed lunch and then explored the Spirit Trail, suspension bridge and Panorama Trail. With the guidance of our knowledgeable driver-guide, we also experienced local wildlife, including a Ruffed Grouse mother with her chicks and noticed signs of black bears in the area.

It was a wonderful day filled with breathtaking views, fresh mountain air and the beauty of nature. Many participants shared that they would love to visit again in the fall to enjoy the autumn colours.

Strawberry Daifuku Workshop

On Saturday, June 13, Tonari Gumi partnered with Kintoki Sweets to host the first session of our Japanese Cooking Basics Workshop Series. The Strawberry Daifuku Workshop was fully booked, with participants eager to learn how to make this popular Japanese sweet.

Under the guidance of Sen from Kintoki Sweets, everyone learned the techniques for preparing and shaping daifuku mochi. Each participant made two strawberry daifuku to enjoy and take home. The finished treats were both beautiful and delicious!

Thank you to Sen and Kintoki Sweets for sharing their expertise and to everyone who joined us for this fun and tasty afternoon. We look forward to welcoming you to future workshops in the series.

Genki-Gumi Collaboration with Men’s Club

Isn’t it always fun to do something different? On June 10, Vancouver Genki-gumi and Men’s club played Karuta (Japanese card game) together as a collaboration activity.

Every week, the Genki Gumi enjoys activities from one of four categories: physical, social, creative, or brain training.

Karuta requires concentration while allowing you to interact with others. And of course, participating more actively makes it a workout too! The Genki Group and the Men’s Club members enjoyed the heated Karuta-game together.

Genki-Gumi Coquitlam Bowling!

Another different activity at Coquitlam! We had a fun bowling event on Jun19. Usually the class is at Coquitlam City Library, but today we went to Zone Bowling.

Although most participants hadn’t bowled in decades, we all enjoyed a friendly game together. And the winner was Ms. Kimiko Nitta!

TG Social Club 3rd Anniversary Event

A Day of Reflection, Gratitude and Inspiring Life Stories

On Saturday, June 20, Tonari Gumi proudly hosted the TG Social Club 3rd Anniversary Event, welcoming 45 participants for a meaningful afternoon of friendship, reflection and celebration.

Guests enjoyed a delicious Japanese-style lunch while reconnecting with friends, reflecting on the journey of the Social Club over the past three years and discussing hopes for its future. The event provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere where members could strengthen old friendships and build new connections.

First and foremost, we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated Social Club Committee Members who have helped make this program possible:

Makiko Suzuki, Louvaine Kadonaga, Carol Yamamoto, Leslie Schroeder, David Iwaasa, Barbara Tanaka, Derek Imai, Frank Kamiya, Mas Kitagawa, Ken Yada, Lurana Tasaka, Makoto Inuzuka, Naomi Shikaze and Ed Hayashi.

Thanks to their commitment, generosity and passion, the Social Club has continued to thrive for the past three years and has become an important place of connection and belonging for many seniors in our community.

A highlight of the event was the Life Stories Session, where David Iwaasa, Mas Kitagawa, Ken Yada, Henry Wakabayashi, Roy Uyeda, Kikko Tasaka, generously shared personal stories from their lives.

Listening to their experiences reminded us of the tremendous challenges they faced while living through the pre-war, wartime and post-war periods. Although each story was unique, a common thread emerged: a remarkable spirit of perseverance. Despite hardships, discrimination and uncertainty, they moved forward one step at a time with determination, resilience and the attitude of “shikata ga nai”—accepting difficult circumstances while continuing to do their best.

Through their strength and dedication, they supported their families, built communities and contributed to the growth of Japanese Canadian society. Their patience, hard work and unwavering spirit helped lay the foundation for today’s Japanese Canadian community.

For many of us who immigrated to Canada after the war, it is easy to take for granted the ability to live comfortably and participate fully in Canadian society. Yet the opportunities and sense of security we enjoy today exist because earlier generations endured hardship, made sacrifices and worked tirelessly to build strong and supportive communities.

The Life Stories Session reminded us once again of this legacy and allowed us to renew our gratitude for those who came before us.

As part of the anniversary celebration, committee members were also presented with small appreciation gifts in recognition of their years of service and dedication. The room was filled with warm applause and heartfelt thanks.

The TG Social Club will continue to be a place where people can connect, support one another, learn from each other and celebrate the rich experiences of our community.

To everyone who attended and especially to the committee members who have supported the Social Club throughout the past three years, we extend our sincere gratitude.

“The reason we are able to live comfortably and securely today is because of the path that those before us created.”Let us never forget that legacy and continue to pass it on to future generations.

Masako Arima, Executive Director

2R Renovation Update

We're happy to share that the renovation of 2R is finally complete! There are just a few minor paint touch-ups left to finish. We're now waiting for the occupancy permit before we can officially use the space. We expect it will be another couple of weeks before we can start holding activities in 2R. Thank you for your patience—we look forward to welcoming everyone back soon!

Community Services Resource Information

Approving Access to Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

New retail, online options provide support for adults with hearing loss

Adults 18 and older in B.C. with mild to moderate hearing loss have access to over-the-counter non-prescribed hearing aids through retail stores and online sellers across the province.Too often, people put off getting help for hearing loss because it can be difficult or expensive to access support.

Making over-the-counter hearing aids available will help more people recognize hearing changes earlier and get the support they need to stay active, engaged and connected to the people around them.

Summary

Adults 18 and older in B.C. with mild to moderate hearing loss can buy over-the-counter hearing aids without a prescription
Health Canada-approved over-the-counter hearing aids will be available through retail stores and online sellers
The change will provide a new layer of support through devices that are more readily available

Tonari Gumi English Family Caregiver Support Group

Are you caring for a family member and feeling overwhelmed? Tonari Gumi offers an English Family Caregiver Support Group for individuals who are caring for a family member.

This online peer support group provides a safe and welcoming space where caregivers can connect with others, share their experiences and concerns, exchange information, and support one another. We are committed to maintaining a respectful, confidential environment where participants' privacy is protected.

Meeting Schedule:2nd and 4th Thursday of each month4:30–5:30 p.m. (Online, in English)

Anyone providing care for a family member is welcome to join. For more information, please contact:services@tonarigumi.ca

https://www.tonarigumi.ca/services/peer-support

Stay Safe This Summer: Protect Yourself from Extreme Heat and Poor Air Quality

British Columbia is experiencing more frequent extreme heat and poor air quality from wildfire smoke. Older adults, young children, pregnant individuals and people with heart or lung conditions are at greater risk. Be prepared and pay attention to BC's Heat Alert System – BC HARS 2026 (Yellow, Orange and Red).

Tonari Gumi’s facility is open, except on holidays, during the summer months. Feel free to drop by and use the library or 3^rd floor with your friend(s).

During Extreme Heat

Drink water regularly, even if you are not thirsty.
Stay cool by using air conditioning or fans.
Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours (11 a.m.–early evening).
Check on seniors, neighbours and others who may need assistance.

When Air Quality Is Poor

Check the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI).
Stay indoors with windows closed whenever possible.
Limit outdoor exercise and strenuous activities.

For Families with Young Children

Keep children well hydrated.
Avoid leaving children in parked vehicles.
Reduce outdoor play when air quality is poor.

Helpful BC Resources

HealthLink BC – Beat the Heat: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-library/health-features/beat-heat
BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC): https://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/preparing-for-heat-events
ClimateReadyBC: https://climatereadybc.gov.bc.ca/pages/extreme-heat

Tonari Gumi Advance Care Planning Workshop in Japanese “Let’s Talk About Your Health Care Wish” - June 23, 2026

Four people, including staff, participated in our small-group workshop, “Let’s Talk! Advance Care Planning (ACP): Let’s Talk About Your Health Care Wish”.

Using an interactive ACP card game, participants reflected on what matters most to them, explored their hopes for the future and shared their thoughts in a supportive and welcoming environment. The workshop encouraged meaningful conversations about personal values, healthcare preferences and how best to communicate these wishes with family members, loved ones and healthcare providers.

Advance Care Planning (ACP) is the process of thinking ahead about the medical care and support you would want and sharing those wishes with the people who may be involved in your care. ACP is not a one-time activity—it is an ongoing process that should be revisited and updated as your health, life circumstances and personal values change over time.

This workshop is offered as a two-part series. The follow-up session on August 11 will provide participants with an opportunity to share their experiences of discussing ACP with others, reflect on challenges they encountered and exchange ideas and strategies for continuing these important conversations.

The next Japanese-language ACP workshop series will be held on:

• Part 1: July 7, 2026

• Part 2: August 18, 2026

For details and registration, please click here: https://www.tonarigumi.ca/post/2026-tg-life-seminar-workshop

Haven’t Filled Out Your Canada Census 2026?

To support employment, transit, education, health care and more. If anyone needs assistance, has not received their census card, or wants to complete the 2026 Census over the phone, they can call the Census Help Line at 1-833-852-2026.

Census employees who speak languages other than English or French are available to help. It is not guaranteed that staff will be able to respond immediately in the requested language, but every effort will be made to provide timely assistance.

If a person does not return a questionnaire, a census employee will follow up and help them complete their questionnaire. During the follow-up, if a language barrier is noticed and another household member is unable to help, a census employee who speaks the respondent’s language will contact the household. Census employees carry a language card to help them assist respondents who do not speak English or French.

For more info: https://www.census.gc.ca/en/index

Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) – Reapplication

The Canada Dental Care Programs’ 2026 reapplication deadline was on June 30, 2026. If you missed the deadline, you need to apply new coverage. For more information of eligibility requirements and how to apply:

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan/apply.html#apply-online

Tonari Gumi Golf

https://www.tonarigumi.ca/tg-golf-2026

https://www.tonarigumi.ca/tg-golf-2026

Volunteer Call: Powell Street Festival

We are currently recruiting volunteers for the Powell Street Festival, taking place on August 1st and 2nd.We truly need your support again this year!

If you are interested in joining us, please complete the volunteer registration form.

We will begin enhanced volunteer training and orientation sessions starting in July.

Please register first using the link below.

Volunteer opportunities are available for the following periods:

Last week of July: Festival preparation
August 1–2: Festival days (2 days)
August 4–7: Clean-up after the festival

If you know anyone—friends, family, or acquaintances—who may be interested in volunteering for this year’s 50th anniversary Powell Street Festival, please feel free to refer them to us.

Registration link: https://forms.gle/tKwqd83NEJ8641e49

We will share further details as they are confirmed.

Call for Kimono, Yukata and Jewelry Donations for Powell Street Festival

As preparations continue for the Powell Street Festival, Tonari Gumi is accepting donations of kimono, yukata, geta, zori, traditional Japanese accessories and jewelry to be sold at our festival booth.

If you have gently used items that you no longer need, we would greatly appreciate your donation. Proceeds from sales support Tonari Gumi’s programs and services for the community.

Donations will be accepted until July 28.

Thank you for your generous support. We look forward to receiving your donations.

Outing to Bloedel Conservatory

This time, we have planned a tour to the Bloedel Conservatory in Queen Elizabeth Park, where will take our time to relax and enjoy the seasonal flowers, tropical plants and beautiful gardens

■ Date and Meeting Place

Thursday, July 9, 10:00 AM at Tonari Gumi (42 W 8th Ave)

We will take Bus # 15 together.

■ Schedule

10:00 Depart

10:30–12:30 Visit the conservatory

12:30 Lunch nearby or bring your own

~2:00 Return to Tonari Gumi

■ Fee

Members $5 / Non-members $10Admission: approx. $9 (adult), $7.20 (senior)

■ Notes

Lunch is not included.

Details for payment will be sent after registration.

Schedule may change due to weather/transportation.

■ Registration

Deadline: July 3 (Friday)

Form: https://forms.gle/YanXuS6qfoiEnDSj9

We look forward to seeing you!

Take Great Photos & Videos

Thursday, July 9 (TG Outing): forms.gle/cUB6gnoHzbn1RZfc8

Thursday, July 16 & 23 (at TG): forms.office.com/r/qEKdx7xWrV?origin=lprLink

A Place to Belong: Community Celebration

New Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Place: Richmond Caring Place (Parking Lot)

This free, family‑friendly outdoor celebration will bring together newcomers, long‑time residents, volunteers and community partners to explore the cultures represented in the FIFA World Cup. We will have cultural display stations, a passport activity, performances, a storytelling wall and a mini soccer zone for children.

Messages from the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society

BC Heritage Sites August Openings: Mayne Island & Ucluelet

The Japanese Canadian Legacies Society (JCLS) preserves and shares the history of Japanese Canadians in British Columbia through the BC Heritage Sites and Legacy Community Projects programs, assisting local communities in British Columbia in promoting public awareness of pre-war Japanese Canadian history through interpretive heritage projects at sites of ancestral communities and other places of historical significance, including sites of wartime incarceration.

Funding is intended to help make some of these now mostly invisible sites visible to new generations of British Columbians so that they may learn to appreciate the lasting legacy of Japanese Canadians in British Columbia.

Survivors, Descendants and their families are warmly welcomed at all events, as is anyone with an interest in this important chapter of BC’s history.

Two openings will take place in August 2026:

1. Mayne Island – August 16 (1:30 pm – 3:00 pm)

Mayne Island Japanese Canadian Legacies Project

This project promotes awareness of Mayne Island’s Japanese Canadian history at three sites: restoration work at the Japanese Memorial Garden, information panels at the Miners Bay wharf and an outdoor exhibit at the Mayne Island Museum.

Location: 430 Fernhill Road, Mayne Island, BC

Contact: Michael Kilpatrick: michael@michaeldesign.ca

*Mayne Island School, 1936. NNM 1996.152.1.2*

2. Ucluelet – August 29 (2:00 pm – 3:30 pm)

Ucluelet Japanese Canadian History Pavilion

Overlooking Ucluelet Harbour, the Pavilion stands near the site of one of six Japanese Canadian villages that lined the harbour before the 1942 wartime internment. It honours the families whose hard work helped build the community, acknowledges the losses of internment and celebrates their resilience and lasting contributions to the region.

Location: Imperial Lane at Matterson Drive, Ucluelet, BC

Contact: Jaqueline Chamberland: jchamberland@telus.net

*Konko Canada Ucluelet Division, 1934. NNM 2010.31.41*

Thank you for your Support!

The Japanese Community Volunteers Association, “Tonari Gumi” gratefully acknowledges and thanks the following people for their generous donations in May 2026. Although we tried our best to include all of your donations, there is a chance we have missed your name. Please contact us and we will make the correction.

Monetary Donations

Urban Impact Recycling Ltd, The Frank H. Hori Charitable Foundation, RBC Community Investment Hub, Mariko Morita, Shizu Sheburoff

In Memory of Seiko Tanami (Online Donation)

Susan Asaoka, Mariko Takagi, James Takagi

MONTHLY GIVING Monetary Donations (Online Donation)

Takashi Sato, Kazuo Futami, Thomas Kiyoshi Campbell, Tsutae Suzuki, Anonymous

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TG Social Club’s Lillooet Cultural & Heritage Tour