Statements

Mission

To create mutual economic benefit by facilitating prosperous relationships with Japan.

Background

Established in 2000 to promote friendly relations and cultural understanding between the people of the state of Tennessee and Japan, the Japan-America Society of Tennessee, Inc. (JAST) is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation, funded by individual and corporate membership fees and grants from government institutions and private foundations. Serving as Honorary Co-Chairs of the Society are The Honorable Bill Lee, Governor of Tennessee, and The Honorable Kayoko Fukushima, Consul General of Japan in Nashville. Headquartered in Nashville, JAST is overseen by a 23-member volunteer Board of Directors from leading businesses, institutions and organizations from across the state. JAST goals are to provide to the citizens of Tennessee with accurate information about the people of Japan and their culture; promote social, cultural, scientific and educational interchange between Tennessee and Japan; and encourage appreciation and respect for the differences and similarities of the cultures of the peoples of Japan and Tennessee. JAST members gain access to business, educational, cultural and social programs with members of both the Japanese and American communities. Additionally, membership allows Japanese firms a way to contribute to the cultural fabric of the state, to show community interest, involvement and concern outside of Japanese circles, and to meet American business people who are doing business or are interested in Japan. Non-Japanese firms also gain opportunities to make friends and do business with Japanese residents across the state.

Impact

JAST delivers programs to our members and the general public through collaboration with the Consulate General of Japan in Nashville and other community partners. The Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival, the Memphis Japan Festival , the Women's Leadership Forum and Networking Luncheon, the Tennessee-Japan Forum and coordinating Tennessee's governor-led delegation to the Southeast U.S./Japan and the Japan-US Southeast Association are three of the most visible examples of our work. We will continue with these successful programs in 2022.

Needs

Volunteers to work in all areas at the Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival and Memphis Japan Festival. Individual and corporate sponsors for the Memphis Japan Festival and the Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival to produce two family-friendly festivals that celebrate Japanese culture and the close bond between Japan and the people of Tennessee. Increase Japan-American Society of Tennessee corporate membership. Partners and sponsors for educational and networking events.

Service Categories
Primary Category:	International, Foreign Affairs, and National Security  - Promotion of International Understanding
Secondary Category:	Public & Societal Benefit  - Professional Societies & Associations
Tertiary Category:	Mutual & Membership Benefit  - Alliances & Advocacy

Areas Served

TN