Vision Statement

1. Tonari Gumi strives to provide a home away from home for Japanese-Canadians of all generations and backgrounds.

2. Tonari Gumi strives to improve Japanese-Canadian quality of life through independence, personal development, friendships and affirmation of cultural heritage.

3. Tonari Gumi strives to achieve financial sustainability and fiscal independence.

Mission Statement
Tonari Gumi is a grassroots charitable organization which provides programs and services.

Tonari Gumi is a place where people help each other and build relationships to respond to the changing needs of our community.

Also known as...

While the organization's official name is the Japanese Community Volunteers Association it is more commonly known as Tonari Gumi. While the literal translation of Tonari Gumi is neighbourhood organization the word also has a special meaning. Historically, in Japan, neighbourhood organizations played the wider social role of involving all generations and members in the support and improvement of the community. In Canada the name carries additional historical weight, during the Japanese Canadian internment of World War II, neighbourhood organizations were formed in the work camps to assist members of the community. The name Tonari Gumi carries a reminder of the past but also a hope for the future as volunteers, young and old, work together for the betterment of the community.

The year 2003 marks the 30th anniversary of the organisation. In 2000, we saw the realisation of our long time plan to relocate to a safer neighbourhood. We regret having to leave our Powell Street location, but look back with fondness on the many wonderful years we had there. Our present location at 511 East Broadway is terrific and we are happy to be able to continue offering our many services from this location. We can be accessed easily by public transit and there is plenty of street parking. Over the past 29 years Tonari Gumi has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community it serves. We hope that old friends and new faces will make use of our facilities and resources!