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- American Welfare & Works Association (AWWA)
The American Welfare & Works Association (AWWA):The American Welfare & Works Association (AWWA) is comprised of representatives of the following chartered U.S. Forces spouses clubs on Okinawa: NOSCO, KOSC, MOSC, and OESC. For 40 years, AWWA has forged a vital link between American military families and their Okinawan neighbors. AWWA has been quietly fostering a relationship with the Okinawan community through charitable contributions, friendship, and community involvement. AWWA offers a way for its member clubs to coordinate and consolidate their resources, providing the maximum positive impact on our community. Representatives of AWWA's clubs meet monthly to pledge funds to both local Japanese welfare facilities and American organizations. These funds have been used to purchase many items, including vehicles, an ultrasound machine, and baby blankets. AWWA helps make a difference in the lives of the elderly, the physically and mentally challenged, and the children of Okinawa. If you are interested in contributing to AWWA, simply visit one or more of the gift shops, purchase an item, and become a patron of worthy American or Japanese organizations in need. Better yet, volunteer at your favorite gift shop and help generate the charitable funds that flow to worthy organizations. |
To apply, please email the following: presidentawwa@gmail.com Japanese Applicants: translatorawwa@gmail.com
Applications can also be downloaded on the link below. |
You Shop, We Give!
AWWA is one of the few organizations made up of all four branches of military. The organization is comprised of representatives from five military spouses’ organizations: the Kadena Officers’ Spouses’ Club, the Okinawa Enlisted Spouses’ Club, the Naval Officers’ Spouses’ Club of Okinawa, and the Marine Officers’ Spouses’ Club. Originally established to provide grants to Japanese non-profits in 1952, fast forward to 2020 and we now include American organizations and have been able to provide nearly $8 million to groups in need.
The charitable funds that AWWA donates to both the Japanese and military communities are generated from the profits of the three gift shops on island (Kadena Gift Corner, Marine Gift Shop, and Fleet Gift Shop) as well as Uncle Sam’s Attic (the Kadena Thrift Shop) and The Marine Gift Shop.
Each month, the AWWA board meets to review grant applications submitted by American and Okinawan organizations in need. On the American side, we do a great deal to help sports teams, youth activities, the Stork’s Nest, programs organized by the USO, Boy and Girl Scouts, etc. The items we are able to provide to the Okinawans include hospital beds, ultrasound machines, handicapped accessible vans, oxygen concentrators, food preparation equipment, incinerators and boilers, pottery kilns and so much more.
We’ve donated nearly $8 million in our more than 65 year history.