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Project Description
Introduction
“My child still isn’t speaking much”
“At daycare, my child has trouble talking with friends and often spends time alone”
“My child doesn’t understand Japanese, and even when they’re struggling, they can’t tell anyone”

 

 

We’ve heard voices like these so many times.
Children with roots outside Japan often become isolated before they can even receive the support they need, held back by barriers of language, culture, and unfamiliar systems.
That is the reality of Japan today.
To change this situation…
International Child Development Support Center
We are launching the International Child Development Support Center !!

 

 

"The International Child Development Support Center
is a project to create a safe and welcoming place where children with roots outside Japan can learn, play, and grow with confidence — surrounded by understanding and care."
"By crossing the barriers of language and culture, and cherishing multicultural harmony,
we work hand in hand with families, schools, communities, and local governments
to nurture an environment where children can grow without isolation
and walk confidently toward their future  together with the community that surrounds them."
"Based on our vision “Creating smiles and bright futures for children around the world” 
we are taking on this new project with all our hearts!"

ncorporated Association One Life
Introduction
We are General Incorporated Association One Life (One Life).
Guided by our philosophy, “Let’s make the most of this one precious life,”
We currently operate 14 offices, with about 100 staff members engaged in a variety of activities, including after-school day services, child development support, employment assistance, international exchange, and sports promotion.
About 80% of the children we support have roots outside Japan, with many of them being of Brazilian nationality.
For children who are easily isolated due to language and cultural barriers, we provide learning and daily life support, growth opportunities through sports and music activities, and comprehensive assistance in cooperation with local communities, families, schools, and public institutions.
"We aim to create a place where everyone can feel safe and to build a society where multiple cultures live together in harmony.
"

 

 

 

In 2017, we began providing developmental support for children of foreign nationality in Okazaki City, and the following year, we established a consultation support service to better respond to the needs of multicultural families.
In response to requests from parents and local community needs, we expanded our services to Nishio City in Aichi Prefecture, as well as Minokamo City and Kani City in Gifu Prefecture, gradually opening after-school day services and child development support centers.
"As of November 2025, we operate 14 offices and have supported more than 1,000 families in total.
"

 

 

Why are we establishing the “International Child Development Support Center”?

 

"In Aichi Prefecture, there are about 320,000 foreign residents  the second largest number in Japan.
"
"Source: Official Statistics of Aichi Prefecture
"
This represents about 4.3% of the prefecture’s total population the highest number ever recorded.
In particular, many residents come from countries such as Brazil, Vietnam, the Philippines, and China, and multicultural coexistence is gradually becoming a part of everyday life.
"However, behind this rich diversity, new challenges have emerged  the barriers of language and systems, and the isolation within local communities.
"

 

A place that clearly reflects this situation is Okazaki City in Aichi Prefecture.
In this city, 15,211 foreign residents make their homes.
Source: Statistics of Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture
On the other hand, there is still no developmental support center where children with roots outside Japan can safely learn, play, and receive the help they need.
"Because of language and cultural differences, many families become isolated, losing their connections with schools and the local community.
"
When the necessary support doesn’t reach them, it can affect their future opportunities for education and employment.
We have taken action to change this reality.

 

 

What gave a major push toward making this vision a reality was the collaborative project organized by Okazaki City  the “What to Do with Okazaki / What Will Become of Okazaki” Research Project, carried out in partnership with industry, government, and academia.
"Source: “What to Do with Okazaki / What Will Become of Okazaki” Research Project
"
"This research group was an initiative aimed at developing new business concepts to help solve local issues, conducted through the structured curriculum of the Graduate School of Project Design.
It was held 20 times between June 2023 and February 2024."
Our General Manager, Mr. Saito, also participated as one of the researchers, engaging in discussions and field research together with local business leaders, experts, and students to further refine the project concept.
"With the support and cooperation of many people throughout this process,
the International Child Development Support Center project took on a concrete form
and began moving forward toward realization.
"

What is the “International Child Development Support Center”?

 

The International Child Development Support Center is a multicultural hub where children with roots outside Japan can attend with a sense of safety and belonging.
"● Opening Date
Planned for May 2026"
"● Location
Ikeda, Tsutsuhari-chō, Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture.
The center will be located in an easily accessible area within Okazaki City,
aiming to become an open and welcoming facility where local children and families can visit freely."
"● Available Hours and Capacity
The facility will operate on a day-service basis, with an average usage time of about six hours per day,
offering both childcare and developmental support functions, and accommodating up to 30 children."
"● Target Group
The center will primarily support children with developmental needs who have roots outside Japan,
while also providing a safe and inclusive environment open to all, regardless of nationality or background.
"
"● Services
A wide range of services will be provided — including developmental support and therapy for children,
consultations on growth and learning, daily life assistance for parents,
and help with procedures related to welfare services, housing, food, and clothing.
The center will also offer coordination support with schools, daycare centers, and related institutions.
In addition, it will serve as a community hub for local exchange events and parent–child workshops.
"
"● Concept
The concept of the facility is “multicultural coexistence” and “community collaboration.”
Although Okazaki City has a large number of foreign residents,
there has never been a developmental support center focused on assisting families of foreign origin.
We aim to transform language and cultural differences from barriers into opportunities for mutual learning,
creating a space where Japanese and foreign families can naturally connect and support one another.
"
"● External Collaboration
We place great importance on expanding our support network through public–private partnerships,
working together with local governments, schools, hospitals, embassies, community organizations, and Brazilian schools."
"● Specialized Staff
The center will include a diverse team of specialists — such as childcare workers, psychologists, speech therapists, and professionals with experience supporting children overseas — providing individualized care that respects each child’s unique needs and family background.
"

 

 

"To realize our vision  “Creating smiles and bright futures for children around the world” 
we will build this center as a model hub of multicultural coexistence,
sharing its message from Okazaki City to all of Japan, and beyond to the world."

We want to introduce play equipment that supports children’s development.

 

"Through this crowdfunding campaign,
our goal is to introduce developmental play equipment at the International Child Development Support Center
to support children’s growth and play in a meaningful way."
"The play equipment will be provided by Jakuetsu, a well-established manufacturer whose products are widely used in nursery schools, kindergartens, and children’s facilities across Japan.
"

 

 

"By introducing play equipment designed with safety and diversity in mind,
we will create an environment where all children  both those with roots outside Japan and Japanese children  can play and learn with peace of mind."
"Play is an essential part of children’s development 
not only supporting their physical growth, but also nurturing language, social skills, and self-expression.
"
"The play equipment introduced through this project is designed not only for fun and enjoyment,
but also to encourage children to think independently, take on challenges,
and experience the joy of achievement through repeated exploration and growth.
"
"We hope to nurture this center as a hub of multicultural coexistence,
and to create a future where all children in the community can grow up feeling safe and supported.
"

▼ Use of Funds
"The support we receive through this crowdfunding campaign will be used to cover the following expenses.
"
"・Cost of introducing developmental play equipment: approximately 1.55 million yen
"
"・Production and shipping costs for return gifts: approximately 800,000 yen
"
"・Project management fees and related costs: approximately 650,000 yen
"

▼ Future Schedule
・October 2025 – Start of center construction work
・March 2026 – Construction completed
・March 2026 – Completion of application for certification as a child disability day-support facility
・April 2026 – Planned opening ceremony of the center
・April 2026 – Commemorative lecture planned for the center’s opening
・May 2026 – Planned opening of the center (schedule may vary depending on progress)

 

 

 

Details of Returns (Supporter Rewards)
"With heartfelt gratitude for your support, we are preparing the following return gifts.
"

An easy way to show your support  “Heartfelt Support Course” (from ¥3,000)
"We will send a thank-you email and, if you wish, include your name on our website 
so your kindness will be remembered as part of the Center’s history."
Original Goods Course” (¥10,000)
"We will send you exclusive One Life items, such as tote bags and badges,
filled with the love and creativity of our children and staff."
"Collaborative projects that help you feel connected to the local community
"
"In the “Ohta Oil Collaboration Course,” you can enjoy a set of high-quality Japanese oils from a long-established company in Okazaki.
In the “Miyazaki-en Collaboration Course,” you’ll receive three varieties of fragrant Japanese tea.
"
"“Selectable International Event Course” (¥30,000) and
“Selectable Multilingual Lesson Course” (¥30,000)
"
We offer special programs where you can experience cross-cultural exchange.
Through Portuguese and English lessons, you can learn about multicultural coexistence.
“Welfare Support Course” (¥100,000)
"The representative of One Life will personally provide training and consulting
to support the operation of welfare facilities.
"
“Bronze,” “Silver,” “Gold,” and “Platinum” Member Courses (¥100,000–¥1,000,000)
"In addition to having your name displayed on the supporter’s plaque and being invited to a tour of the center,
higher-tier courses include special experiences such as naming a room, participating in the ribbon-cutting ceremony,
or even serving as the Center Director for a day."
Every course is an important step toward supporting the smiles and futures of children.
Please support this challenge in the way that feels right for you.

Project Outlook & Vision
Thank you very much for taking the time to read our story up to this point.
"The International Child Development Support Center is not just the construction of a facility
it is a major challenge for the future.
"
"Children living in the city  especially those with roots outside Japan
are easily isolated due to language and cultural differences,
and even when support is needed, it often does not reach them sufficiently."
"We are facing this challenge head-on,
working to build a community hub where everyone can learn, play, and grow with peace of mind."
"Once this center is completed, children will not only receive professional developmental and learning support,
but will also have the chance to meet friends from different cultures and nationalities,
growing together through mutual understanding.
"
"For parents as well, it will become a safe place where they can seek advice and receive support
regarding housing, food, daily life, and access to public services."
"Furthermore, by collaborating with schools, daycare centers, government agencies, and support organizations,
we will create a comprehensive support model that nurtures children through the strength of the entire community."
"Our vision is to expand this initiative, which begins in Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture,
to reach communities throughout Japan and eventually the world.
"
"Our goal is to build a society where multicultural coexistence is a natural part of everyday life,
and to create an environment where children, no matter where they live, can smile and dream about their future."
That is the mission upheld by the International Child Development Support Center.
"This project represents the first step toward making Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture, the world’s leading city in multicultural coexistence.
"
"However, to make this vision a reality, we need the support not only of governments and organizations,
but also of citizens, local communities, and you reading this page."
"The support gathered through this crowdfunding campaign will be used to develop play equipment and therapeutic environments for children,
and to create a safe and welcoming place where they can feel at ease."
"Each person’s support becomes a powerful force that helps shape the future of children.
"
"We warmly invite you to share in this vision
and take the first step with us in supporting this challenge.
"
Your support will help protect and nurture the smiles and futures of children.
"Your support will help shape the future of children
and bring us closer to a truly multicultural and inclusive society.
"
"From Okazaki to the world, please lend your support to this project,
which aims to share a model of multicultural coexistence across the globe."

 

 

Message of Support

 

Márcia Takahashi | Representative, BUSINESS CONNECTION
"I deeply believe in and recognize the great importance of initiatives that support the development of children with roots outside Japan.
"
"Projects like One Life, which stand beside Brazilian children and their families by offering support and guidance,
serve as cultural bridges and play an essential role in opening the way toward a future full of greater possibilities."
"Supporting initiatives like this deeply resonates with Business Connection’s mission of “connecting people, ideas, and purpose.”
It strengthens the local community and truly brings about positive change in society."

 

Shinya Niwa | Child Psychiatrist
"Each child lives with their own unique sensitivity and limitless potential.
"
"Because of differences in language, culture, or developmental characteristics,
many children struggle, unable to fully nurture their potential."
"The International Child Development Support Center that One Life envisions
is an initiative of great meaning and purpose —
a place of coexistence where children can grow while understanding and embracing one another’s individuality."
"I sincerely hope that this center will become a place of multicultural harmony and emotional support,
carrying the smiles and hopes of children into the future."

 

Rafael Sakai | Former Member of Japan National Futsal Team
"The International Child Development Support Center is a precious place that values every child’s potential, culture, and individuality,
while fostering healthy growth in both mind and body."
"This project plays an important role in supporting children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development
by providing meaningful learning opportunities, offering support to families,
and nurturing emotional and social connections.
"
Initiatives like this help create a childhood filled with warmth, inclusion, and rich experiences that nurture the hearts of children.

Permission to carry out this project and to include the company name has been granted by Jakuetsu Co., Ltd.
Permission to use the images featured on this project page has been obtained from the children’s guardians.

"Project Director:
Hiroki Furuya (General Incorporated Association One Life)"
"Project Completion Date:
June 30, 2027"
Project Overview and Use of Collected Funds
A Associação One Life planeja inaugurar o Centro Internacional de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Infantil em maio de 2026, na cidade de Okazaki, província de Aichi.
"The collected funds will be used for the installation of developmental play equipment,
production and shipping of return gifts, and project management fees."
Risks & Challenges
Qualifications and Permits Required for Project Implementation
The application for certification as a child disability day-support facility is scheduled to be completed by the end of March 2026.
"Qualifications and Permits Required for Providing the Returns
"
"The application for certification as a child disability day-support facility is scheduled to be completed by the end of March 2026.
"
"Difference Between the Required Project Cost and the Target Amount
"
The difference between the required amount and the target amount will be covered through grants, bank loans, and our own funds.
Official name of the grant: FY2025 “Subsidy for Facility Development in Support of Next-Generation Child Rearing (Second Term)”

Voices of Parents
K.G / 40s / Female
"“A place where children can grow happily while playing ✨
Japanese and Brazilian staff work together, providing patient and caring support for each child through enjoyable activities.
Speech therapists, psychologists, physical therapists, Portuguese and Japanese teachers, dance instructors, everyone supports the children in such a warm and nurturing environment.
I’m truly grateful from the bottom of my heart.
Thanks to everyone at One Life Terakoya and Nishio, my son has been able to achieve such wonderful growth. Thank you so much. 🙏”"
S.N / 40s / Male
"“For more than seven years, my daughter has been receiving support from One Life. ✨
Thanks to their wonderful assistance, not only has my daughter grown, but everyone at One Life has also grown so much themselves.
Thank you always for your warm and caring support. 🙏
If there’s anyone who feels even a little worried about their child’s development,
please don’t hesitate to reach out to this amazing team, they will truly help you. 🌈”"
Lidiane / 40s / Female
"“It’s a wonderful environment with qualified and compassionate teachers
who provide all the support children need for their growth.
They also care deeply for parents, always offering thoughtful help whenever needed.
Even during the school summer break, the children are well cared for,
receiving homework support and spending lots of fun and meaningful time!”"
Catarina / 40s / Female
"“It’s the best place for children.
They help them overcome every difficulty.
I’m always grateful to One Life for supporting my daughter.
Now, as parents, we feel we must pay close attention to everything.
We truly appreciate everyone at One Life for always helping children face the many challenges before them.
May God bless all the staff who continue to support the children.”
"

321,041 people
As of June 2024, according to the official statistics of Aichi Prefecture

15,211 people
*Based on statistics from Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture, as of October 2025.

Japanese School
Private Sector
Embassies
Nursery Schools
Hospitals
Brazilian Schools
Local Government

Shinya Niwa
Career:
・Child Psychiatrist
・Director, Gifu Prefectural Mental Health and Welfare Center
・Medical Officer, Family Court
・Director, Gifu Prefectural Rehabilitation and Consultation Center for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities / Gifu Prefectural Developmental Support Center

Career:
・Born in São Paulo, Brazil
・Member of Nagoya Oceans
・Acquired Japanese citizenship in 2015 and played for the Japan National Team
・Achievements include AFC Championship victory and four consecutive F.League titles
As a Japanese Brazilian, he supports children’s dreams as a bridge between cultures.