Japan Council:Kansas City

Heart of America Japan - America Society

Purpose / Mission: Founded for the exchange and understanding of social, cultural and educational issues between Japan and the United States and their peoples.

JAS is a non-profit, non-political 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization which strives to promote friendly relations between individuals of the two nations.

Year Established: 1962

Our Mission is "To further understanding between the peoples of Japan and the Greater Kansas City area by promoting social, cultural and educational exchanges."

Meetings: Regular Society meetings are generally held on the fourth Tuesday of each month, except June, July and August. JAS holds a New Year Party (Shinnenkai) each January. Potluck dinners and special programs are held periodically.

Main Activities: Assists the City of Kansas City, Missouri Sister City Commission in hosting annual student exchange delegations from Kurashiki, Japan by placing students with host families and coordinating activities during their stay in Kansas City. Provides partial funding for Student Ambassadors who are sent to Kurashiki under a reciprocal exchange program.

Awards scholarships annually to local college students. Participates in the citywide Ethnic Enrichment Festival each August. Sponsors the annual Greater Kansas City Japan Festival in September or October. Engages in various fund raising activities. Publishes a bimonthly newsletter and a biannual membership directory.

Newsletter: Nichibei News published six times per year, every other month. Nichibei Express published between issues of Nichibei News as needed for important communications.

Newsletter Editor (Nichibei News): Patty Woods

Website: http://www.kcjas.org
  • Website developer and manager, Mike Smick