Chamber of commerce to host Chicago Day in Tohoku event

National Jun. 17, 2012 - 05:56AM JST ( 1 )

CHICAGO —

The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chicago (JCCC) and the JCCC Foundation, in cooperation with other local and international businesses and organizations, will host a tsunami relief event in the Tohoku region of Japan.

The JCCC and JCCC Foundation initiated a relief fundraiser immediately following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. To date, the JCCC Foundation has raised and donated more than $1.5 million to the Japanese Red Cross Society and other relief organizations. The $1.5 million includes three Japanese-developed PARO therapy robots, which look like white baby seals and function like therapy animals. The PARO robots are being utilized by mental health professionals to treat the survivors and provide emotional and mental relief.

The JCCC has hosted their annual Japanese Educational Exchange Program (JEEP) for local educators since 1983. This year for the first time, the JEEP delegates will visit the Tohoku region of Japan and take part in Chicago Day. Chicago Day will feature several different events including performances by former sumo star Konishiki, and Jero, the Pittsburgh-born Japanese enka singer. Konishiki, Jero, and the JEEP delegates will work together in serving the attendees Chicago-style hot dogs. The JCCC and JCCC Foundation will also host a Chicago-themed merchandise give-away. Over 1,000 attendees are expected at each of the two events which will be covered by local and international media.

6/23 (Sat.): Onagawa Town, Miyagi Prefecture
6/24 (Sun.): Kamaishi City, Iwate Prefecture

Information on the JCCC Fundraising Drive can be obtained by visiting their website at www.jccc-chi.org.