Volunteer
"WAONOEN" is a Japanese-style adult day care center that combines the expertise of Japan's elder care day services with the warm, community-oriented culture of Hawaii.
To ensure that each of our clients can spend their day with a smile, we provide heartfelt care and engaging activities every day.
As a community-based day service created together with local residents,
we are currently looking for volunteer staff to join us.
*Volunteer activities at WAONOEN are conducted as nonprofit senior welfare activities in accordance with the State of Hawaii’s volunteer regulations (less than 2 hours per day and less than 10 hours per week).
*Volunteer Opportunities for High School Students
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with our adult day care program.
We truly appreciate the care and compassion that so many students wish to share with our kūpuna.
At this time, we are not accepting high school volunteers, as our intake and onboarding procedures are not yet in place.
We look forward to welcoming student volunteers in the future once our program is ready.
Thank you again for your understanding and for your desire to support our community.
Volunteer Activities (Examples)
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Communication, active listening, and interaction with participants (e.g., conversations, playing table games together, self-introductions)
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Providing gentle support and encouragement during activities such as origami, coloring, and seasonal crafts
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Assisting with simple recreational activities and creating a warm atmosphere (e.g., greeting with a wave, offering a friendly smile)
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Introducing aspects of Japanese culture (e.g., calligraphy, tea ceremony, ikebana, haiku, origami) or sharing personal talents (e.g., playing a musical instrument, light exercise)
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Presenting Hawaiian cultural activities (e.g., hula dance, ukulele, taiko drumming)
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Supporting conversations in Japanese or participating in exchanges with those interested in learning Japanese
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Assisting with decorations and simple photography for seasonal events or birthday celebrations
We welcome people like you!
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Interested in Japanese culture or elder care and welfare
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Enjoy spending time with seniors
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Able to speak Japanese, or want to learn and practice Japanese
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Have talents in hula, music, art, or other cultural activities to share
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Students, homemakers, or anyone interested in getting involved in the community—you're all welcome!
A Day to Meet Someone’s Smile☺
Your kindness and curiosity can make a real difference.
Come join us at WAONOEN and spend heartwarming moments together.
For applications, please contact us through the Contact Us page!