The fourth annual fundraising event, A Taste for Volunteering, held on February 4th was a huge success. This year's theme, "Smile," seemed fitting as many guests left the event grinning from ear to ear. The anticipated event was held at a new location, The Capitol Tokyu Hotel, and attracted more than 230 people from all over the Tokyo community. Guests enjoyed delicious cuisine with exquisite wine and champagne, while browsing through a myriad of wonderful auction items, and catching up with one anotherold and new friends.

   Hands On Tokyo would like to say a humble thank you to all the guests, donors, and volunteers for making this event such a huge success. The net proceeds for this event (about 11 million yen) amount to a significant portion of our operating budget. This is the most we have ever raised in a single event, and we are overwhelmed by your support.

   The night started off with a buzz of excitement as the piano performance by Alexander Heideman (Teen Advisory Board President) welcomed the guests, and Hands On Tokyo Board Chair, D. Steven Lin, opened the event with a speech of gratitude. During the dinner, Mika (professional singer) and the TFV Gospel (a group of teenagers) sang several songs while Kie Kamioka (professional dancer) danced to entertain the guests. Alexander Heideman and Eri Ito (newest Teen Advisory Board member who attends a Japanese school) shared their vision about how the Teen Advisory Board aims to unite international schools and local Japanese schools together to spread volunteerism in the youth community. All guests saw a glimpse of how Hands On Tokyo gives back to the community, collaborating with volunteers of all race, age groups, and language abilities to meet the needs of the Tokyo community.

   After the entertainment, the much awaited Live Auction began. The live auction included fourteen special items. A feeling of competition filled the air as guests tried to outbid one another. During intermission, there was a raffle drawing which was also very exciting. This year, a limited one hundred special raffle tickets were sold for a chance to win one of the two Grand Raffle Prizes.

   The silent auction was open throughout the evening. It included 69 items covering a wide array of genres including getaways, dining & wine, artwork, gifts for her, body & face care, sports, and household goods. Out of all the items, the SMILE tote bags were the most unique. Because this year's theme for A Taste for Volunteering was "Smile," Mr. Friendly tote bags were specially designed just for this occasion. Dedicated volunteers of all ages embellished the bags with their personal touch. The guests looked through the selection of tote bags and purchased the bag that made them smile.

   Thank you again to all the guests, donors, and volunteers for making this event such a huge success. This event would not have been possible without your patience, support, and generosity. 

   Have you ever heard of Thomas Edison? He was a famous American who lived in the 1800s and created over 1000 inventions. To accomplish his great work, he joined together with a number of people who helped him conduct his experiments. When asked why he had so many assistants, he answered, "If I could solve all the problems myself, I would."

   We cannot solve all the problems ourselves. Teams make it possible to do things that we cannot do alone.
Many people want to make a positive difference in the world by serving others, but it can be challenging to find the time. Busy schedules include work demands, family responsibilities, school, and travel schedules. While most of us are not in a position to make a full-time commitment, many people can find a few hours here and there to serve. If you have ever been torn between your desire to help and the limited time you have available, consider forming a team. 

Jill Beufell, Mary Dunn and Jo Scoffield

   Here's how it worked for us: Hands On Tokyo matched our team (about 12 friends from our church) with a project that supports the 3R Project. We take turns driving to hotels to pick up half-used amenities and deliver them to the Hands On Tokyo Office. On occasion, we have delivered the refilled amenities to the children's home. We also participate in the 3R Project held at the HOT office on a regular basis. It is not necessary for every team member to be at every project, so it provides great flexibility. Creating your own team offers the best of both worlds . . . there are people who can fill in when you are unavailable, and it is fun working with friends.

Mary Dunn and Tina O'Bryant

　　　If you want to get involved, but don't feel like you can "do it all yourself," consider forming a team with your neighbors, friends, work associates, church groups, or any other group you would like. Hands On Tokyo provides unique opportunities by matching projects with your team's available time. It's a great feeling to work beside others who are making positive changes in our community. Teams really do make it possible to do things that cannot be done alone.