In 1985, the Pasadena Jaycees began a homestay exchange program with the Jaycees in Kasukabe, Japan (about an hour outside of Tokyo). Alternating host locations every summer, one chapter sends Jaycee members along with local high school and college students to experience the other’s country and culture.
Visitors stay in the homes of volunteer hosts to get the full-immersion experience. The host chapter plans group activities, including sight-seeing, community service, and an overnight trip to a nearby city. High school students who accompany Jaycees on the trip will take part in a cultural exchange event with students from the hosting country.
The Kasukabe Homestay is one of the most unique and meaningful projects for the Pasadena Jaycees. Friendships created on the trips last for years. The Pasadena and Kasukabe chapters have become a long-distance family that reunites annually, to learn from and celebrate with each other.
The Kasukabe Homestay Program is a life-changing experience for all those who get to participate. Prepare to experience cultural immersion, see new sights, and make friends to last a lifetime!
The Pasadena Jaycees are currently scheduled to visit Kasukabe, Japan in odd numbered years (ending in 1,3,5,7,9). The trip typically takes place over 1-2 weeks during the end of July and early August.
There are two categories of attendees on the trip. One category is active Pasadena Jaycees members (ages 21 – 40) in good standing with the chapter. The other category is students (ages 15 – 20 years old) from Pasadena and surrounding cities.
Applications will open 4-5 months before the trip takes place. Attendees pay for airfare and a program fee. Scholarship opportunities may be available.
For more information, please email [email protected].
Hosting a visitor from Kasukabe is a unique opportunity to experience a cultural exchange from the comfort of your own home. The visiting students and Jaycee members stay in the homes of volunteer hosts, allowing them to get a full-immersion experience of American life.
Kasukabe Jaycees are currently scheduled to visit Pasadena in even numbered years (ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) for 1-2 weeks at the end of July and beginning of August.
If you live in the Pasadena area and are interested in opening your home, here are the general requirements for hosting a Japanese student or Jaycee member:
The Pasadena Jaycees are always on the lookout for potential host families for the next homestay exchange. We are also looking for restaurants and businesses to host events, and for Japanese/English speakers to help translate.
For more information, please email [email protected].
