About

The Japanese Red Cross Language Service Volunteers (LSV) is an organization that aims to carry out the humanitarian mission envisioned by the Red Cross and to develop Red Cross volunteers with an international perspective. It was established in 1965, based on the "Paralympics Interpretation Service Corps" formed for the 1964 Tokyo Paralympics. It is a "special purpose" volunteer group under the Japanese Red Cross Society, primarily engaged in volunteer activities utilizing language skills and is entirely run by its volunteer members.

The LSV is a diverse group. With approximately 200 members, volunteers ranging in age from their teens to their 80s engage in activities according to their interests, skills, aptitudes, and lifestyles. Some are non-native Japanese speakers. Some are highly energetic individuals who volunteer with other organizations. Whilst the application of language skills changes with circumstances, each volunteer evolves through their activities.

The LSV activities are also diverse. Our activities primarily involve translation and interpretation, assistance for people with disabilities, support for international exchange programs organized by the Japanese Red Cross Society, and the provision of online guide information for people with disabilities. Our activities range from specialized humanitarian work to picture book translation for infants. We are also involved in international sports competitions for people with disabilities. We expect to increase our activities to address social issues such as aging, disaster prevention, and the needs of foreigners living in Japan.