Overview

Inspired by the success of USJC’s TOMODACHI Kibou for Maui initiative, KLA is a collaboration with Stars and Odyssey Nature Japan, designed to support youth and the community in Altadena as they recover from recent wildfire devastation. The program will send a delegation of high school students to Japan, where they will engage with survivors and recovery experts from the Tohoku region, which was devastated by the 2011 Great East Earthquake and tsunami.

In partnership with the Los Angeles Dodgers and the U.S.-Japan Foundation, proudly announces the launch of Kibou (Hope) for Los Angeles (KLA) — a cross-cultural program empowering youth in Altadena, California through lessons in resilience, leadership, and community rebuilding.

Applications are now closed.

Program Dates:  July 29 – August 3, 2025

Deadline to Apply: May 30, 2025

All applicants must be available to participate in pre/post trip gatherings. If you have a schedule conflict, please email [email protected] prior to applying.

Mandatory Dates (specific times will given upon acceptance)

Orientation – June 26, June 28
Preparation Meeting – July 18
Follow-up Gathering – August 9

Apply Now

Support

The initiative is made possible through generous support from the Los Angeles Dodgers and the U.S.-Japan Foundation.

We are deeply grateful for the additional support from:

  • The Hamai Group
  • Ori-gen Foundation at The Dallas Foundation
  • The Okada Family Foundation, a supporting organization of The Dallas Foundation
  • The Sakanashi Family — in loving memory of Mark Sakanashi, who believed deeply in the potential of Altadena’s youth

“This is about turning tragedy into transformation. By connecting Altadena’s next generation of leaders with communities in Japan that have rebuilt and thrived after disaster, we are creating a powerful opportunity for healing, learning, and future leadership.”

~Audrey Yamamoto, President & CEO, U.S.-Japan Council