Running Michael's energetic broadcast! "Genki-haishin"
The Recommendation of Triple Volunteering
Running Michael is spreading positive energy by participating in marathon races held in disaster-stricken areas , while also taking part in disaster relief volunteer work such as removing mud and debris in those areas .
I wanted to do something for the disaster-stricken areas. But back then, after 3/11, I didn't know how to turn that feeling into something tangible, and I thought the only thing I could do was collect donations on the street. I thought disaster volunteering was too difficult and something I could never do... But actually, did you know there are three types of volunteering?
When I learned about triple volunteering, I thought, "This is it!!"
The activity we are currently focusing on most is triple volunteering. It's a way to continue supporting disaster-stricken areas steadily, over the long term, persistently, and without overextending ourselves .
1. Disaster relief volunteers
This activity involves going to disaster-stricken areas and directly helping with tasks such as removing mud and debris, cleaning, and providing meals. Many people may give up on this idea because they lack the time, physical strength, and tools, and feel that it's too difficult. However, the preparation is only difficult at the beginning. It's sure to be helpful to both the disaster-stricken area and yourself! If you are worried about preparation or would like to know more about it, please see here .
2. Tourism Volunteers
This activity involves visiting disaster-stricken areas as a tourist, eating delicious local food , buying lots of souvenirs, and spending money in the local economy.
Simply make the disaster-stricken area your travel destination. The local food is truly delicious! It's also a great opportunity to get to know the region. Travel with your family and friends and help stimulate the economy! It's the best way to support local communities.
3. Communication Volunteers
This is an activity to share what I've seen and heard about the disaster-stricken areas with others. You don't even need to go to the disaster area; you can do it from anywhere with a PC or smartphone. Of course, care must be taken when handling information, but I post about the places I visit and the delicious food I eat on Instagram and Facebook. I hope that even one more person will become interested! There is so much I want to share.
Turning disaster-stricken areas into places of cherished memories
I participate in disaster relief volunteer activities, but normally I try to choose and attend marathon races and events held in disaster-stricken areas whenever possible. I stay an extra night to see as many of the affected places as I can and listen to people's stories.
I plan to eat delicious local food and buy lots of souvenirs. Those will also be great travel memories.
I tell my friends and family all about what I've seen. I invite them to go together next time!
I post things I've seen and heard, as well as travel memories, on Instagram and Facebook.
Hoping that even one more person will become interested.
I sometimes give speeches at opening ceremonies and events for marathon races.
There are many things I can and want to talk about because I have actually seen them.
To be honest, if it's a bit far from home, the travel expenses add up, and sometimes I find it tough.
But there are many other good things that outweigh that.
The best outcome would be for the "disaster-stricken areas" to transform into "places filled with memories."
You'll find a favorite shop you go to.
Before you know it, you'll have made more acquaintances.
You will meet like-minded individuals.
It feels like going to my grandparents' house in the countryside.
Now, the whole of Japan is filled with disaster-stricken areas, but the whole of Japan will become a place of memories.
I don't want the disaster-stricken areas to just remain disaster-stricken areas.
With that in mind, I'm now traveling all over the country.
At the beginning of our activities, we were solely focused on visiting the areas affected by the 3.11 disaster, but we ended up creating many memorable places.
I've found so many people I want to see.
There are still so many places I want to go! Even if I had multiple bodies, it wouldn't be enough! (sweat)
I would be happy if you continue to support me in the future.
And I encourage all of you to participate in the Triple Volunteer program.
