YWCA of Osaka, Japan

?@The Osaka YWCA, founded in 1917, has a tradition and history of eighty years.?@It was recognized as a juridical foundation by the Ministry of Education in 1925.?@From its founding, the Osaka YWCA organized career and leadership training programs for women, stressing their independence and growth.?@Its programs include Japanese language education, development of international volunteers, youth development, social welfare, international understanding and co-operation, peace, environment, and human rights.?@It is also a pioneer among international non-governmental organizations (NGOs).?@ The Osaka YWCA has centers in Umeda and Kita Senri. ?@In addition to its local activities, the Osaka YWCA participates in cooperation for development programs carried out by the World YWCA (i.e., refugee support, help for the poor, war relief, medical treatment, education, unemployment, etc.) through the Japan YWCA.