Upcoming NPO Events in Tokyo

From refugees and the impoverished, to kids and teens in care, Tokyo hosts several events in September and October to raise awareness and funds for great causes. Here are my favorites:

KIWL 2025 Video Launch Party

Date and time: September 4, 6:30-8:30pm
Location: Footnik, Osaki: https://footnik.net/osaki/
Cost: ¥5,000
Contact: info@kiwl.net
More information: www.kiwl.net

Everyone is invited to join the Knights in White Lycra (KIWL) cyclists and crew at the 2025 video launch party, featuring their recent trip to the Noto Peninsula. Not only did they raise ¥19 million for Mirai no Mori NPO to work their magic with kids in care, KIWL also visited the city of Wajima, where the residents continue to recover from the devastating 2024 earthquake.

The short video, kindly produced by the amazing team at Wild Tame, showcases Noto’s epic scenery, the characters involved in the ride and our visit to the Wajima community center where we brought cheer and support to the residents. The piece truly captures what it means to be a Knight in White Lycra, and why they force themselves into spandex every year!

“If you are curious about joining our annual ride, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn more and speak to the people who have done it,” KIWL founder Rob Williams said. ”If cycling is not your thing, just come and have a laugh at people in ill-advised clothing! Seriously, KIWL also hosts other events such as walking, running and a pub quiz so anyone can get fit and give back, even if it is from a bar-stool!”

This is not a fundraising event, just a celebration. Attendees will enjoy a two hour open bar and buffet for just ¥5,000. There will be plenty of time for socializing before and after the video presentation.

Some of the individuals that HOPE's project has helped by providing clean water, education and support — Photo: HOPE International Development Agency

Evening of HOPE Annual Dinner

Date and time: September 26, 7– 9pm (doors 6:15pm)
Location: Tokyo American Club
Cost: ¥35,000
Contact: dinners@hope.or.jp
More information: www.hope.or.jp

HOPE International Development Agency (HOPE), a non-profit organization, was established in 2001 and is a member of the HOPE Network, which supports the world’s most impoverished people to help them achieve self-reliance.

Since its founding in Canada in 1975, the HOPE Network has supported more than 20 million people by promoting sustainable development projects.

HOPE currently supports pathways to self-reliance in countries such as Ethiopia, Cambodia and the Philippines through safe water supply, hygiene education, higher education for ethnic minorities, school construction, microfinance and support for women’s income-generating activities.

Donors can provide a:

School in Cambodia ¥12.5M
Well for five to 10 families ¥233,000-¥840,000
Cow ¥260,000 for six family farms
Water for life, one family ¥78,000

Evening of HOPE Annual Dinner at Tokyo American Club features:

Video report on HOPE’s activities
Silent auction
Prizes provided by sponsors
Seated full-course dinner and drinks
Sake tasting provided by Tonoike Sake Brewery

Two children walking together—a reminder of the hope that events like the Cup of Humanity Tea Ceremony seek to honor by supporting displaced families and preserving cultural traditions — Photo: Alexander Treves

Cup of Humanity Tea Ceremony Experience, Refugee Empowerment International (REI)

Date and time: October 5, 9:30am-5pm (90min slots)
Location: Private tea house at 4-17-4 Takanawa, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Cost: ¥8,000
Contact: jane@rei-npo.org
More information: https://rei-npo.org/en/

Being uprooted from your home doesn’t just mean leaving a place—it means being torn away from your culture, heritage and traditions. In today’s fast-changing world, preserving one’s culture is already a challenge; imagine how much harder it becomes when forced to flee.

This new REI event invites participants to experience the Japanese tea ceremony, offering a moment of reflection on the importance of preserving and passing down traditions across generations. It also encourages us to consider how we can support refugees whose lives have been upended by circumstances beyond their control.

This event includes the tea ceremony experience with tea served by the host, traditional Japanese sweets, Thai desserts, an introduction to the culture of Myanmar’s Karen people and an overview of REI’s activities. If you are under 18 or plan to bring someone under 18, please contact us in advance: yasuko@rei-npo.org.

Beginners and those with no prior experience in tea ceremony are most welcome. English explanations will be provided.

Children enjoying their time exploring how to use the web, providing technological support for their future — Photo: YouMeWe

A Night of Hope & Impact: YouMeWe

Date and time: October 15, 7pm-9pm
Location: SalesForce Tower, 1 Chome-1-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda Ward
Cost: ¥15,000, ¥25,000
Contact: hello@youmewenpo.org
More information: https://youmewenpo.org/

Join YouMeWe for an unforgettable evening of purpose, passion and philanthropy at its 53 Stations of Connectivity, benefiting the NPO and its mission “to help teenagers growing up in institutionalized homes to become fully capable and financially independent young adults as they reach the age of 18 and prepare to leave home, whether it is off to university, technical school or a new job.”

Enjoy a heartwarming evening featuring:

Inspiring stories from those we serve
Gourmet dinner and curated drinks
Live entertainment and performances
Silent and live auctions
Special honors for community champions

Every ticket purchased, every donation given and every bid placed directly supports YouMeWe programs that bring light to vulnerable lives. Celebrate the power of compassion and write a new chapter of hope.

Share this Story