The Asiatic Society of Japan presents its first online lecture of 2026, by Hands On Tokyo Board Member Aya Higa. 

Hands On Tokyo is a bilingual and multi-cultural volunteer organization that provides meaningful volunteering opportunities to those who want to give back to the community. Their vision is to create a society where each individual is respected and valued, and people proactively support each other. 

In Japan, there are about 45,000 children unable to live with their families, for reasons such as domestic violence, mental disabilities or financial difficulties. There are about 11 million people with disabilities and 7 million who suffer from rare diseases. And with the aging population, more than 30% of people in Japan will be over 65 by 2030. Although Japan’s total greenhouse gas emissions have been declining, issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss and the transition to a circular economy also remain serious challenges. 

Every small step we take as volunteers matters. Volunteers can learn the underlying problems in Japan through hands-on projects. By connecting the people in vulnerable situations with companies, community organizations, schools, government offices and other institutions, we can slowly but surely make an impact in our society. 

The power of volunteering is immeasurable. Volunteering brings understanding, communication and respect among people. Through this presentation, Ms. Aya Higa will share how volunteering is changing the mindset of people and Japanese society.