Central California Nikkei Foundation is a California non-profit corporation created to serve the social, cultural, educational, economic and health needs of the Japanese-American community of Central California.
The Foundation works...
- To ensure the continuation of the Nikkei Service Center.
- To address the needs of the Japanese-American elderly of Central California, including senior housing.
- To coordinate Japanese-American programs and projects within the community, without duplication of service.
- To promote Japanese-American cultural programs.
- To project a positive image of Japanese-Americans to the broader community.
- To act as a funding source for numerous Japanese-American community projects and programs through tax-deductible contributions.
The 22-member board of directors works tirelessly to raise funds to support the senior programs and services. In early 2004, the board opened a new senior entrepreneurial project, Asian Treasures and Thrift Store at 914 F Street. The store is operated totally by volunteers and donations. In addition to this self-help project, the board organizes several annual fundraising events to support the organization’s goals and objectives. Its key focus in recent years has been the development and realization of a Senior Facility. As of August, 2005, the Foundation officially closed escrow on a 98 room assisted living facility. This project could not have been realized if it were not for the outstanding support from our entire community.
Background
In the mid-1970’s, the Central California District Council of the Japanese American Citizen League founded the first and only service center to meet the needs of the elderly Nikkei in Central California. In the early 90’s, the Central California Nikkei Foundation formed to assume sponsorship of the Nikkei Service Center. The Center is a place where seniors receive service and it is also a place where many seniors are of service!
Funding
Central California Nikkei Foundation is supported by individual donations, contributions from local community-based organizations, and grants from the Fresno Madera Area Agency on Aging (FMAAA), Fresno County Economic Opportunities Commission (FCEOC), the National Asian Women’s Health Organization (NAWHO), and The California Endowment.
