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Kazuo Ashimura
President
The Japanese Red Cross Language Service Volunteers
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The Japanese Red Cross Language Service Volunteers (LSV) is a group which performs voluntary activities based on the humanitarian principles and the philosophy of the Red Cross. The LSV is also one of the volunteer groups which is under direct control of the Japanese Red Cross (JRC), as well as one of the specialized volunteer corps (mainly specialized in English skills) of the JRC Volunteer Corps. The LSV marked its 50th anniversary in 2015.
The characteristics of the LSV are firstly, diversity: this is a group consisting of approximately 200 members of all ages, some are foreign nationals and some are also members of other volunteer groups. Secondly, it is autonomous: the running of the LSV is similar to the activities of the LSV’s volunteers. Finally, cultivating human resources capable of voluntary activities. This is also one of the purposes of the LSV.
The volunteer activities of the LSV are diverse: translation and interpretation by using mainly English language skills; assisting people with disabilities; assisting international exchange programs by JRC; offering useful information on LSV’s website about facilities for people with disabilities; and other activities. The LSV is planning to conduct a volunteer activity for confirmation of the safety of foreign nationals in times of disaster.
To those who are interested in the LSV
Recruitment is held once a year. The LSV conducts a recruiting orientation in April. The principles and the philosophy of the Red Cross and information about the LSV and its volunteer activities are explained. Those who attend the orientation and then join the LSV can attend a training program to gain minimum knowledge and skills for the volunteer activities.
To those who are considering requesting the services of an LSV volunteer
As previously mentioned, the LSV is under the control of the JRC. However, the LSV provides volunteer activities for other clients. The LSV considers accepting other client requests providing the purpose is met with the JRC principles and philosophy. The LSV intends to meet the changes of the needs of society and prepares for a new volunteer service.
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