One organization has quietly transformed lives for five decades in the heart of San Jose’s
Japantown. It is the Yu-Ai Kai, a Japanese American community center dedicated to senior
services, that’s celebrating 50 years of commitment, compassion, and cultural preservation.
As proud supporters, the San Jose Japantown Lions Club extends heartfelt congratulations to
Yu-Ai Kai on this very very inspiring milestone.

Founded in 1974, Yu-Ai Kai, which translates beautifully to “friendship and love”, has long
served as a pillar of strength and warmth for Japantown’s senior residents. From wellness
programs and hot meals to cultural classes and caregiver support… Its services go far beyond
physical health. They also nourish the soul and honor tradition. For fifty years, Yu-Ai Kai has
kept generations connected, empowered elders with dignity, and ensured that Japantown’s rich
cultural legacy continues to thrive and be supported.

At the San Jose Japantown Lions Club, we’ve only been around for thirteen years—but in that
time, we’ve looked to Yu-Ai Kai as a model of what true community service looks like. Our
mission, “We Serve Japantown,” is more than a motto. It’s a promise and a dedication. That’s
why we’re honored to partner not only with Yu-Ai Kai, but also with organizations like The
Grateful Garment Project, Grace Solutions, the Wesley Methodist Passion Project, Betsuin
Girl Scouts Troop 61332, and the Japanese American Citizens League. We are a 100%
volunteer-powered organization dedicated to uplifting Japantown alongside those who share our
values. These events aren’t just fundraisers or photo ops. They’re opportunities to connect,
volunteer, and make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors.

Whether you’ve lived in Japantown your whole life or are just discovering its deep roots, we
welcome you to be part of this continuing story. Let’s honor Yu-Ai Kai with applause, but, beyond
the acknowledgements, with action.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Yu-Ai Kai’s enduring impact on the community. Together,
we can ensure the next 50 years of Yu-Ai Kai—and our entire community—are just as inspiring
as the last.

Join us. Volunteer. Donate. Serve Japantown.

Visit japantownlions.org/donate/ to contribute or sign up to help at one of our upcoming events.

Island Brunch – Sunday, October 12, 2025

A feel-good fundraiser that brings together flavors and friends, old and new.