Nanzan Ryo – Leadership Camp
Walkie Walrus • March 6, 2020
Jr. & Sr. High School Student, Mountain House (Ski / Snowboard Camp)
Nanzan Ryo, founded 1886, was the 7th orphanage established in Japan.
The Chubu Walkathon began supporting Nanzan Ryo in 2010, and since 2013, support has been specifically channeled towards the costs of their annual Ski & Snowboard Camp for Jr. and Sr. high school students.
Initially, this was a simple, instructor-led camp aimed at fostering the physical and mental development of these youths. However, since 2017 attending junior and senior high-school students have actively participated in the planning and implementation of the 2-day workshop, making the endeavor a youth-centered, independence-building project.
Comments from Participants
"I received a lot of encouragement from everyone when I was trying skiing, so I thought it would be nice to support and encourage other people in my daily life."
"I learned that it is important to initiate conversation when you are interacting with new people."
"Thanks to the efforts of so many people, we were able to enjoy so many great experiences. This really motivated me to participate actively."
Mentoring Opportunities
At the end of the first day of the training camp, graduating high-school students, who will also be leaving the orphanage, offer advice and messages to their juniors, and have time to reflect together on their imminent independence.
A Selection of Comments
"Strive to connect with people and value your relationships with all people."
"It is important to have dreams and goals in life."
"As you enter society and the workforce, it is important to respect and honor people you encounter"
This experience offers the unique opportunity for juniors and seniors to chat and interact with each other, which is difficult to do in their normal, day-to-day lives.
The Chubu Walkathon is delighted to support this great initiative. We truly appreciate the value that the Ski / Snowboard training camp offers in helping these youths gain independence and develop useful interpersonal and leadership skills.
