April 1, 2020 - March 31, 2021 stitute Rural Leaders Training Ce
OI Greeting Nurturing Rural Leaders 02  New Paths for Our Training 04  An Opportunity, Not a Crisis 04 Honing My Farming Skills 05 Participant Story Grasping the Core of Learning 24 Curriculum
Foodlife at ARI
06 “Producing What We Eat” in Times of Corona 07  ARI’s Crisis Resilience Thanks to Foodlife Practice 07  A Shared Place for Food Education 08  Responding to Livestock Diseases and Using Goat Meat Together with Supporters 16 Your Kindness Is Reaching Us! 17 Volunteering During a “New Normal” 18 Unbroken Support from Overseas Graduate Outreach 20  COVID-19 is Global, and so are ARI’s Graduates 21  Messages from Graduates 09 Long-Serving Staff Say Goodbye 10 That We May Live Together— Two Meters Apart 13 Labyrinth Completed at Nasu Seminar House 14 Snapshots 15 Foodlife Delivered to Your Home 19 Our Supporters & Partners 22 Financial Report 25 Community Members Asian Rural Institute Cover Art     Noriko Nakayama, Momoko Watanabe 2021 © Asian Rural Institute
Greetings
To he 2020 training had an unusual start due to the l  blockade of cities and border closings in each country because of the spread of the novel coronavirus infection. However, we welcomed ten participants (eight from overseas and two from Japan) plus one Japanese Graduate Intern and were able to carry out the train- ing program to the end safely. Fortunately, the spread of infection has been relatively suppressed in northern Tochigi Prefecture. While maintaining community life, we spent the year without compromising ARI’s values but instead reaffirmed the importance of those values. We want to express our sincere gratitude to the many supporters who enabled ARI to overcome the pandemic’s new challenges. One of the greatest lessons learned from the training during the COVID-19 pandemic is the fact that humans can adapt to a new environment, even one with many constraints. It is something that human history has already revealed, but this "new situation" that human- ity has been forced to adapt to suddenly engulfed the world in a short time. And this condition has continued for over a year. Our “adaptation” involves pain, suffering, sadness, and many sacrifices. However, by experiencing our transformation in this adaptation process, we also experience the hope born with it. Moreover, we learned that this hope is not limited to individuals but turns into greater joy when shared with others. This hope was also reflected in the activities of our overseas graduates. Many graduates shared their wisdom, ingenuity, and other resources with their peers in their respective regions and were active in working for populations that were the most vulnerable to COVID- 19. We who have experienced this hope must not stop working for the next generation, but rather increase our efforts more and more. Through the pandemic, we also reaffirmed the power of the community. ARI has always valued community- based learning, but humans need to be connected to others and have colleagues who can help, consult, and support each other in a crisis. Our connectedness was the most significant force that kept us moving forward without losing sight of our mission. As felt during the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake ten years ago, having friends who will stand beside you through uncertainty and unfathomable fear in order to overcome the crisis together makes survival possible for a fragile lone indi- vidual. As a result, we could recover, think about the future, and realize that we can increase our resiliency. We hope to convey these experiences through this Annual Report. Masaoki Hoshino Board Chair
New Paths
for Our Training
The 2020 Rural Leaders Training Program Yukiko Öyanagi Associate Director Curriculum Coordinator ue to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, the training program was different from the past years. With the blockade of cities and borders at t he end of March to April and the visa revocation measures by the Japanese government, nineteen of the prospective participants were unable to come to Japan. As a result, only ten participants (including two from Japan) and one Japanese Graduate Intern joined the Rural Leaders Training Program. This class was half to one-third of the average class size. The training did not go as usual, and one after another, trips were canceled or changed to accommodate the conditions. Homestay programs in the Tokyo metro- politan area were canceled. We changed an observation trip involving overnight stays in Saitama to a day trip. Also canceled were exchanges with schools and kindergartens. We could not go to the Tôhoku region for the Rural Community Study Tour (RCST). During the Western Japan Study Tour, we avoided urban areas, schools, and welfare facilities. Under such circumstances, we took the optimistic view—"If this is the case, we will do what we can’t usually do” —and we spent nine months incorporating some new training into the program. Not the “second best” but a “different best” In classroom lectures, participants gained various knowledge necessary for a rural leader, and basically, we were able to carry out lessons comparable to our usual year. Unfortunately, when the virus spread rapidly, we avoided inviting outside lectur- ers from the metropolitan area. Still, we were able to overcome this problem by connecting with these lecturers online. (The United Church of Canada funded the IT equipment.) Participants attended online lectures in the classroom and staff supported the discussions. This format made it possible to maintain a community of learning in which members live together and learn from each other by connecting with remote lecturers. As a result, we were able to see new possibilities that ARI had never pursued before. Furthermore, these online classes opened up new paths for learning, connecting us with Tokyo, Osaka, Yamagata, and even Indonesia. Due to the small number of partici- pants, there were more opportunities for each one to be a group leader in various settings. Since the number of exchange programs decreased, we had more inter- nal discussions during that time. “What is development?” “What is empowerment?” “What is money?” The participants deep- ened their thoughts on the core meaning of the words they casually use.
RCST focusing on
the local community Not being able to go to the Tôhoku region for the summer RCST, we increased the number of day trips within Tochigi Prefec- ture. Visiting organic farmers, compost centers, farm-to-table restaurants, local farmers markets, ranches utilizing forests, and many others, we discovered new learn- ing possibilities in social business and the organic farming market. Both the partici- pants who wanted to study marketing and those who were interested in recycling said, “If we were able to go to these places because of this year, we were lucky to be this year’s participants.”
The 2020 participants
The backgrounds of the participants who came to ARI this year ar diverse: For example, one works with local women’s groups in the community, while another one works to increase the income of farmers through agriculture and livestock breed- ing programs. One person aims for a better future in the region through the education of children. One man has continued to plant more than 10,000 trees to improve the local environment while working as a farmer for many years. One woman quit her banking career and jumped into a community that practices organic farming. We believe that “self-transformation as a rural leader” is the learning that benefits all of these different individuals. While we tried to design the curricu- lum to meet the needs of participants, we quickly realized that COVID-19, which we cannot control, opened up new learning possibilities. The participants’ high learn- ing motivation supported these changes. The link between the ARI’s curriculum and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals has become even more apparent. Despite concerns about the pandemic that continues worldwide, participants were determined to take every opportunity to learn. As a result, these rural leaders, who underwent more self-transformation than expected, returned to their countries and began to work to transform the local people. Photos: (1) Visiting a farmer in Ogawa, Saitama Prefecture (2) Guest lecturer Jeffrey Mensendiek talks about "dignity" (3) Participants visit a local market (4) Hands-on with a ploughing machine (5) Collecting straw
An Opportunity,
Not a Crisis
Short-term special training in Ghana Yukiko Ōyanagi Associate Director Curriculum Coordinator t the end of March 2020, when partici- a pants began to arrive in Japan, we heard the news: “Ghana closed the border. The four Sierra Leonean students are left behind!" ARI participants from overseas come to Japan after receiving a visa from the Japanese embassy in their country. Sierra Leone does not have one; therefore, the Japanese embassy in neighboring Ghana also serves that country. It is customary for Sierra Leonean participants to go to Ghana first, complete the procedures there, and then come to Japan. However, this year, due to the influence of COVID-19, Sierra Leone closed the border just after the four participants had traveled to Ghana, and then Ghana closed its borders before they headed to Japan. ARI staff sought help from Ghana- ian graduates. Immediately, 2018 gradu- ate John Yeboah raised his hand, saying, “If that is the case, come to me.” If they can hold out at a graduate’s place for the time being… is what we thought, but John was already looking ahead. He started a short-term training program for the four participants, including many aspects of the ARI program. It included cultivation of vegetables and crops (cultivation methods, seedling management, weed control); organic farming training classes (bokashi fertilizer, compost, agricultural materials using local resources); as well as presenta- tion skills, observation trips, training, lead- ership skills, etc. We were able to connect online for their interim report and listen to the presentations here at ARI. We were all surprised to hear a greeting and introduc- tion in Japanese at the beginning. The four participants received train- ing from John until the end of August and
Honing
My Farming Skills
2020 Advanced Training Course Report Ryô Maki 2019 graduate, 2020 Graduate Intern Foodlife (Livestock) staff from March 2021 2  participants from Asia and Africa during vegetable cultivation and pig farming and learned so much from them. In the first half of the year, I belonged to the vegetable department. I used a 200m² field and rice paddy to practice what I learned as a participant in 2019. In the field, we worked to prevent diseases and damage caused by the lack of biodiversity and improve the soil by using various organic substances such as rice straw, charcoal, and fallen leaves as bedding for vegetables. In the rice paddy, we practiced rice cultivation using the SRI (System of Rice Intensifica- tion) method. With this method, water is kept to a minimum, and single plants are planted, considering rural areas with little water and seeds. In the latter half of the year, I belonged to the pig farming section to become the pig section staff from March 2021. I became the leader of the pig section, honed my pig farming skills and knowledge, and focused on measures against classical swine fever. We instituted several procedures, includ- ing consistency in changing boots, placing additional stepping containers to wash them, and an information-sharing board about classical swine fever. In addition, to prevent oversights in the work process we created an after-work checklist and a form that describes the past birth record of the sows and the following season they will be in heat. finally returned to their home country in mid-September. This shortened training seems to have been very meaningful for them, and they greatly appreciated the opportunity to learn these skills. Above all, we are proud of our ARI graduate, John Yeboah, who was able to carry out such a training program. The United Church of Canada, Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, and American Friends of ARI members funded this training. Graduates of the special training in Ghana (1) Songu Philip Nabieu (New Life Ministries International ) (2) Takieu Amara (Sierra Leone Correctional Service) (3) Magnus Foray Musa (Ndegbormei Development Organization) (4) John Tucker (The Methodist Church Sierra Leone-Relief and Development Agency)
PARTICIPANT STORY
Grasping the Core of Learning
Agustinus Adil Parish Church of St. Theresa in Mbata (Indonesia) “Me, English, little little. Farmer, no understanding only talking, practical very important." Meet Agustinus Adil, commonly known as Agus. He is a farmer born and bred. While he did not have the opportunity to continue schooling past his child- hood, he is regarded as a leader by his peers. Thinking about the community and not just his own farm, he began planting trees, saying, "We need forests to secure water resources." After he had planted more than 10,000 trees, a river appeared in the area—he had accom- plished something worthy of a char- acter from a picture book. He started growing konjac as a source of income and recommended it t o other farmers in the village. This is the Agus who came to ARI. But the common language of ARI is English. Given Agus’ home on the island of Flores— in the remote Lesser Sunda Islands, an archipelago said to have been left out of development in Indonesia—he did not have much exposure to English besides a little that he had learned from priests and sisters after applying to ARI and could hardly understand it when he arrived in Japan. With a slightly embarrassed face,
In Memory
Dr. Mitsukuni Inaba (Chairman of NPO Private Rice Research Institute)
Died in December 2020
"If you have any questions about rice cultivation, ask Dr. Inaba." I was told these words almost twenty years ago when I was in charge of the ARI farm. Since 2012, Dr. Inaba had instructed not only our staff but also our participants in rice cultivation, oil crops, and pesticide damage as part of our observation trips every year. We will continue to share the thoughts of our teacher, who taught a wide range of topics to our staff and graduate students with presentations at the International Conference on Agriculture for Nurturing Biodiversity and to our graduates in proj- ects in Bhutan. (Yukiko Ōyanagi, Associate Director) Agus would string together a sentence in English. ARI staff would use Google Translate to translate handouts into Indonesian, and his classmates would listen to him carefully. But ARI is a mysterious place: You encounter many moments that make you think that people somehow communi- cate with their hearts rather than with words. Eventually, the people around him began to understand what Agus wanted to say. Even his roommate, a Ghanaian, learned to make best use of the same broken English as Agus. Although he had a hard time with reports and essays, people could see that he grasped the essential concepts. During his final presentation, Agus talked about his dream in English, looking straight ahead into the future. “When I get home, I will involve the local govern- ment and promote organic farming." His shy smile was unforgettable.
“Producing
What We Eat”
in Times of Corona
Crops & Vegetables section report Masanobu Sakurai Foodlife (Crops & Vegetables) Yield of Major Farm Products in 2020
t ARI, vegetable cultivation begins in early March. By putting fallen leaves in a frame made of bamboo and rice straw, adding water, and pressing down on this mixture, we created “hotbeds.” Using the heat generated as the leaves ferment, we can grow vegetable and rice seedlings in early spring. Sowing starts with lettuce, cabbage, and celery, which do not require high temperatures to germinate, followed by eggplant, which needs a long seedling- raising period. After that, from late March to early April, we sow summer vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and bitter melons. We can plant seed potatoes with eyes directly in the fields. In 2020, we continued to sow and raise seedlings according to the regular cultiva- tion calendar, although only ten partici- pants could join the ARI training. Even with uncertainty about the future, we continued to grow vegetables and crops as best we could based on the desire to “produce what we eat ourselves.” Many volunteers came to ARI, so even with the small number of participants, we obtained yields of over 2000 kg each for potatoes and onions. Even with carrots, we could harvest more than 1500 kg and produce about 3000 bottles of carrot juice. In addition, we released 50 ducks into some fields where rice was grown, and their weed control was very successful. The total yield of pumpkins decreased due to planting them in poorly drained fields. The yield of tomatoes cultivated in the greenhouse did not increase as expect- ed; the cause is the “continuous cropping disorder” caused by growing the same vegetables in the same place. Soil improve- ment by applying beneficial microorgan- isms may enable continuous planting to some extent. Still, the basic cultivation technique is to change the location of solanaceous vegetables such as tomatoes, eggplants, and potatoes every year. We learned a lot from the soil this year as well. If we can go out to the fields every day and keep an eye on the subtle changes that occur, I think we can continue harvest- ing a lot of delicious, healthy vegetables in the future. **** India and Africa this year, there is a possi- bility that new problems will occur one after another on a global scale. So, I wondered how a disaster-resistant and sustainable lifestyle would look. One answer is circulation. Natural ecosystems are built on a perfect balance and circula¬ tion. In the food chain, animals eat plants, microorganisms decompose the organic matter that is their carcasses and resi¬ dues, and plants absorb the decomposed matter. It is a cycle. Only humans do not follow this cycle. Money is not circulating in the economy either. The rich are getting richer, the poor are getting poorer, and the gap between the two is getting broader and broader. ARI's Foodlife is based on the importance of circulation. Thanks to our work towards self-sufficiency, we always have enough rice in storage to feed our 60 or more community members for a year, and vegetables, eggs, and meat are available all year round. This Foodlife has given us a minimum level of security to survive for the time being, even ARI’s Crisis Resilience Thanks to Foodlife Practice The coronavirus outbreak and the nuclear accident have one thing in common: they both show the limits of capitalism, which is based on steady growth. Nuclear power plants have been driven forward by the scientific belief that nuclear waste and radi- ation can be disposed of with the advance- ment of science. The fact that humans have penetrated deep into the natural world through the development of nuclear power plants may have allowed the coronavirus to infect humans. In any case, convenience and efficiency are paramount in all areas, the economy is reaching the limits of growth, and the environment is no longer able to withstand the burden. This unsustainable way of being is coming in waves. As we have seen with the grasshopper outbreaks in
A Shared Place
for Food Education
FEAST section report (Food Education and Sustainable Table) Ikumi Kanamori "T" he 2020 "stay-at-home" wave seemed to entice the people of ARI to visit the kitchen more often than in other years. In addition to making daily meals, we usually make our bread for breakfast, sweets for events, and pickles using seasonal fruits and vegetables. Still, such cooking activities were seen more frequently in 2020. Many people—participants, volunteers, and staff—were inter- ested in cooking and food processing, and they used their spare time to go to the kitchen and make delicious foods. They experi- mented with natural yeast bread, soybean products, cheese, and sweet potato snacks. As members from different food cultures cooked, we enjoyed different takes on the same ingredients. The act of making delicious food with care gave individuals the awareness and the confidence that they could make it them- during earthquakes, nuclear accidents, and the COVID-19 crisis. It is also a great joy to use the surplus rice as a donation to those suffering under the pandemic. Although there are still many issues to be addressed, such as self-sufficiency in animal feed, we are constantly searching for ways to make our agriculture and lifestyle more resilient to climate change and disasters. We hope to provide people with a place to learn about sustainable lifestyles while experiencing this life together. Osamu Arakawa Associate Director and Education Director (Farm Manager) selves. The mystery of who made the dish often became a conver- sation topic. The people who wanted to try making it themselves approached the original chef to make it together next time. Thus, a natural cycle of shared learning was born. The kitchen became a place to practice food education, which is the aim of the FEAST section. In addition, we tried to carefully communicate and coordinate with the farm and sales sections to efficiently use the farm prod- ucts that had become too abundant given the smaller-than-planned ARI community. We could practice growing, harvesting, cooking, and sharing food around our ‘Sustainable Tables.’ Although it was not “fancy” by any means, we shared safe, delicious, and nutritious food every day. The accumulation of such simple everyday experiences contributed to everyone's healthy life in this uncertain year. ###
Responding to
Livestock Diseases
and Using Goat Meat
Livestock section report Takashi Ōtani Foodlife (Livestock) Tיhis past year, ARI has been indirectly affected by abnormal outbreaks of live- stock diseases. An infectious disease affect- ing pigs (classical swine fever) appeared in the neighborhood in September. To control the outbreak, the government tightened laws, including prohibiting the feeding of left-over cooked rice and bread rolls from school lunches. We had no choice but to give the latter to our birds instead. In addi- tion, ARI adopted preventive measures to protect our pigs, including vaccination, installing bird nets and protective fences around the piggery, and introducing piggery-only boots and aprons. Beyond our pigs, we took measures to prevent infectious bird diseases, like bird flu, which started ravaging other localities in autumn. → →
Other livestock activities
In the poultry section, we raised laying chickens and broilers to supply eggs and meat for the community. Because our chicken production is organic, we did not provide vaccines to the broilers, using our organic methods such as garlic water to build immunity. Sometimes, music is played for the birds to help them feel calm and relaxed. We used grass and bamboo from around the farm to raise the goats and supply our kitchen with meat. Unfortunately, we had no kids born this year and missed having goat milk and its products. A record number of piglets were born in the pig section. Unfortunately, many died due to being born too small or too early, or from being crushed by the sows. We also lost two sows due to high summer temper- atures. We are currently seeking ways to lower the mortality rate.
Suspension of fish farming
We have decided to suspend our fish (carp) aquaculture. Although students were highly interested in tropical fish such as tilapia, they had less interest in the daily management of freshwater fish such as carp. In addition, harvesting and facil- ity maintenance was time-consuming due to issues such as water leaking from the ponds. On the other hand, interest in beekeeping is rapidly increasing, especially among African participants. I have been working on Japanese honey- bees for the past few years, so I would like to change from raising carp to beekeep- ing in the future. After the suspension of carp production, the existing pond, water pump, rainwater harvesting system, and surrounding orchards will continue as part of the integrated water space training.
Change of staff
Gilbert “Jil” Hoggang, who has been in charge of the pig farming section, will return to his community in the Philippines in 2021. We thank Jil for his twelve years of service to ARI and wish him well as he begins a new life at home. Ryô Maki, our 2019 ARI graduate from Japan and 2020 Graduate Intern, took over as pig section staff member in March. Yield of Major Livestock Products in 2020 71 heads meat Pigs Chickens eggs 99,664 411 chickens meat milk  1,768.9 liters Goats meat 52.2 kg (and innards 16.0 kg) Fish meat 26.5 kg
Zacivolu Rhakho Dozo
India, '00 graduate, '09 TA. 2010, 2012 - 2019 Foodlife (FEAST) staff In April 2020, I had finished my role as a staff member at ARI and prepared to go home to Nagaland in India when the coronavirus pandemic hit, forcing me to postpone my departure. I could hardly understand what was happening to me, and I spent many sleep- less nights. The year 2020 made me face life’s greatest challenges in many respects, mentally, physically, and financially. However, these challenges also enabled me to learn about Christ's love and I experi- enced this love as I continued to live together with ARI’s community members. Through this love, "deeply rooted in the love of Jesus," as mentioned in the ARI Mission Statement, many people encouraged and prayed with me. There were even people who gave me food and supported me financially. I thought I already learned so much from the years spent at ARI— as a participant, a training assistant, a staff member—but learned more in the next nine months than during all the time before. The chaos that the pandemic brought about gave me a chance to discover and appreciate the deeper meaning of what I had learned at ARI over more than ten years. I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to everybody for being there for me in my darkest times. I want to bless you with the Word of God from James 2:14-17: What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself is dead if it is not accom- panied by action. May God bless ARI and all ARI supporters. We all need a place like ARI, where love and care are lived out in action. Back home, I feel more committed than ever before to work with my people at the grassroots.
Long-Serving Staff Say Goodbye
Gilbert P. Hoggang
Philippines, '04 graduate 2008 - 2020 Foodlife (Livestock) staff I am a 2004 graduate. I was sent to ARI by a small community-based cooperative in the Philippines, and I continued to work there after graduation. In 2008, invited to be a staff member at ARI, I oversaw the livestock (pig and cattle) section until my retirement in 2021. I was very moved to be able to apply my training as a veterinarian and as a farmer. My initial challenge was to plan lessons and share my knowledge and experience with the ARI participants and community members. I also had opportunities to hold classes for trainees of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers program, university and high school students, and participants in various ARI programs, and to give lectures off-campus and online. When I first started my work, we were buying imported feed to fatten the pigs and cattle. However, I wondered if this practice was feasible in participants' countries and regions and if they had alter- native livestock feed ingredients. Furthermore, there were always many challenges, such as dealing with radiation and infectious diseases for livestock. To deal with these challenges, I revised and organized the lecture contents for each topic so that participants could easily understand them, created our syllabus for livestock lectures, and collected various visual resources available in Japan. To address the feed issue, we made fermented feed using local resources such as okara (soy pulp after making tofu) while considering the nutritional components of the feed. As a result, the self-sufficiency rate for our livestock feed reached approximately 50%, and we were able to obtain meat quality on a par with or even better than that of pigs raised only on commercial feed. Working itself was a continuous learning process for me. Working and living with the participants has enriched my knowledge and expe- rience. Many participants are using what they learned to raise pigs after returning to their respective countries. I am very pleased that the twelve years of devoting all my energy to the ARI training program are bearing fruit through our graduates worldwide. COMMUNITY
That We May
Live Together—
Two Meters Apart
Adapting social distance and other coronavirus countermeasures Meredith Hoffman Community Life UrT hat we may live together." These five simple words that make up ARI’s motto were challenged this year in a way like never before with the world- wide outbreak of the novel coronavirus. The ARI community is built, quite inten- tionally, around a life of sharing. We share everything from living quarters, cleaning chores, cooking, farm work, recreation, music, ideas, and stories. Perhaps, though, nothing symbolizes life together at ARI more than diverse people sharing meals around a common table. What do we do then, when a group of people talking and eating together is suddenly seen as danger- ous, an activity that could spread an unseen virus, break down a community, or cause death? It is no wonder that coronavirus countermeasures were felt most heavily at ARI during meal times. Anyone visiting ARI before 2020 would have felt the physical closeness of the community as they settled into chairs around a table set for eight. You would most likely have bumped elbows with your neighbor as you reached for one of the common serving bowls, and words and laughter would have made their way around the table faster than you could pass the salt. So, when social distance became the new normal, one of the first counter- measures introduced at ARI was to down- size the number of people who could sit at one table from eight to four. We placed all the serving dishes on the main table, which was overhung with a plastic sheet, like a buffet line. After meticulous hand washing, each person disinfected their hands with hand sanitizer before making their way through the serving line. Masks stayed on at all times, except while eating. We set up homemade plastic partitions on the tables that, though transparent for visibility, proved to be an excellent sound barrier, making conversation virtually impos- sible (we have since added a feature that allows for sound travel). Mealtimes, which were usually the best way to welcome and connect with others, sometimes became an isolating experience as people were told to sit apart or, in some cases, were not permit- ted to eat in our dining hall Koinonia at all. We also needed to exercise precaution in how we received people from outside of the community, such as staff and volunteers commuting from local areas, short-term visitors, long-term volunteers, and partic- ipants arriving in the community for the first time. During states of emergency, visi- tors and commuting volunteers were asked not to come to campus, and staff members worked from home if possible. Through- out the year, those freshly arriving in the community were required to do a two- week quarantine before moving into the dorm or sharing a room with a roommate. During this “observation period,” people were asked to take their temperature twice a day for two weeks and keep apart from the other community members as much as possible. This meant they couldn’t enter the kitchen, could only work in the Crops and Vegetables section during Foodlife Work, and had to sleep in the guest house. The same regulations applied to those reenter- ing the community after traveling to highly infected areas, including staff! Our having to maintain social distance impacted other essential parts of our life together as well. Our beautiful Oikos Chapel was deemed unfit for meeting since a group of people sitting closely together and singing in a poorly vented area also became a dangerous activity under COVID- 19. We began conducting open-air Morning Gatherings, first using our outdoor amphi- theater and, when the summer sun became too hot, sitting in the shade of trees on the grass at the backside of the library. Plan- ning ‘Community Events’ was a challenge since most off-campus venues were closed to the public. However, it forced us to be creative with our on-campus events, such as organizing a Japanese Culture Day. We were also able to enjoy all four seasons through socially distant outdoor events like cherry blossom viewing in the park and playing in the snow on Mount Nasu. Overall, the percentage of meals eaten outdoors significantly increased this year as eating outside on the deck behind Koino- nia was a safer option than eating indoors. So, did the countermeasures work? We are happy to report that, as of this writing in June 2021, the ARI community remains coronavirus-free. However, maintain- ing social distance was physically possi- ble because of the smaller than normal community size. If twenty-nine partici- pants had been able to come as planned, we would not have been able to all sit inside Koinonia and remain two meters apart. In that sense, fewer numbers were a blessing in disguise. Indeed, 2020 was a year in which we learned to count our blessings. We were reminded that each person’s presence is a gift and not to be taken for granted. We were reminded that being able to do life together is an amazing privilege when people are told to stay home and stay apart. Although we are wearing masks and main- taining distance, even though we miss the warmth of hugs and handshakes and the closeness of being crowded together around the table or on benches in the chapel, we are alive by God’s grace and are here at ARI. We still laugh, we still sing, we still hope. We are still finding ways to live together, two meters apart. Photos: (1) Members keep their distance from each other during an open-air Morning Gathering (2) Transparent partitions set up in the dining hall (3) Volunteers and participants enjoy lunch outside as well (4) Participants try calligraphy during the 'Japanese Culture Day' (5) Staff members enjoy autumn colors at a community event outside the campus
Maintaining
Closeness
with Visitors
Fundraising and Domestic Programs, Educational Programs report Takashi Yamashita Fundraising & Domestic Programs (External Programs, Nasu Seminar House Manager) Photos: (1) Students from the Senior High School at Sakado, University of Tsukuba, visiting ARI for their 'Interna- tional Experience Program’ (2) JOCV trainees learn compost making and (3) share their experiences and impressions with each other Another unexpected opportunity was the Student Christian Fellowship (SCF) camp. We heard the following story from the SCF manager when planning the camp. “College students have lost their heart and spirit due to the pandemic. They were looking forward to living on campus but couldn’t even enter the university and had to study online-only classes. They just stayed in their small apartments because they didn’t want to bother people by catch- ing COVID-19." As a result of the 4-day, 3-night camp at ARI, the students who had felt suppressed were able to release their emotions and heal their hearts. 2020 was a year of sharing even with suffering all over the world. During this year, ARI has accepted visitors with anxiety, worries, and restrictions. However, we realized once again that the role of ARI, where you can touch the soil, talk to people, and eat together, is significant. There are still many concerns, but we made a vow in 2021 that a major part of our role is to empathize with people, help them to heal, and provide hope. ARI
Webinars
Community building through the internet iversity is an integral part of the ARI community. In addition to the partici- pants, staff, and volunteers, we are joined by working visitors, study campers, and interns throughout the year. Together, all of us form ARI’s community of learning. However, this familiar setting of ARI life was abruptly disrupted as COVID-19 spread worldwide. Under the COVID-19 pandemic, it became increasingly clear across work sections in ARI that we had to expand the framework of the ARI community and maintain contact with this larger commu- nity. This was the start of GCAP—a collab- orative effort between Graduate Outreach, Curriculum, Admissions, and PR. Amidst all the uncertainties, we thought about the people who had to stay in their homes. If they could not come to ARI and we could Manosi Chatterjee-Abe Curriculum (Admissions) not go to them in person, we could meet halfway virtually. Thus, the ARI Webinars were born. The first few webinars were dedicated to Japanese participant recruitment. We focused on sharing the perspective from current 2020 participants and graduates with those who wanted to know more about ARI and tried to convey the warm and welcoming spirit of ARI. We now host webinars every month and plan discussions that include a wider audience, including our global community of supporters, graduates, and even our local community. They also cover topics that are rooted in the core values of ARI. Although connecting through technology is inevi- table in the modern era, we are pleased to possibly connect with more people in ways that were not possible before the pandem- ic. Our hope is that in this expanded ARI community, we continue to learn from each other while also sharing our collec- tive knowledge and experiences. SPOTLIGHT Labyrinth Completed at Nasu Seminar House
＜ ＜ ＜ ＜ ＜ ＜
Have you heard about a labyrinth that is not designed to make you go astray but that makes you meditate? For several years, we had been planning to create this mysterious pathway: a medi- tation labyrinth that can calm one’s mind and heal one’s heart by walking. In the winter, we suddenly found ourselves with time on our hands as the number of visitors had dropped due to the coronavirus. The staff and volunteers collaborated and built the labyrinth. By collecting stones from the field and using the part of a wall that had collapsed in the 2011 earthquake, we completed it at no cost. n 2020, ARI’s study camp program had the largest reservation numbers ever. We had worked hard to reestablish rela- tionships that were broken by the 2011 earthquake, and we steadily added new partner organizations. However, due to the influence of COVID-19, the full schedule of programs became a blank slate. As a result, the income from educational programs for visitors was one-tenth the expected income for 2020. We planned the ARI Open Learning Programs to become “closer,” meaning that more people could embrace the diversity of the ARI community and bridge the distance between different countries. In 2020, these education programs were incompatible with the COVID-19 restrictions imposed by the government. No matter how hard we tried to develop infectious disease countermeasures, we could not reduce the risk to zero. We continue to be conflicted and anxious about accepting visitors and protecting the community members living at ARI. Rather than closing our campus, ARI began looking for opportunities. The Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) by the Japan International Coop- eration Agency (JICA) are similar to US Peace Corps volunteers. A friendly JICA staff member said, “JOCVs dispatched all over the world have been ordered to return home because of the pandemic. The moti- vation of the members who had to return midway has dropped significantly. Can you create a program for them?” We accepted the challenge and came up with a program. It was held twice, once in July and once in November. We were able to train sixteen JOCV members. Those who attended gave ARI positive feedback on the program: “My motivation had dropped from having to stay at home all the time, but I was reju- venated by talking to JOCV members and ARI participants in the same situation." “I did not realize that working together, cooking, and eating would be so encour- aging." 12 13 JB Hoover - Appreciation for Years of Service for ARI JB worked at ARI as admissions coordinator from 1993 to 2005. After moving back to the US, he worked with AFARI for fourteen years, serving as the executive director for the past ten years. JB took ARI graduates to visit American supporters, making personal connections and passing on the ARI story. “He nurtured the ARI spirit in AFARI and the hearts of many North Americans," says ARI Director Tomoko Arakawa. Even after returning to the US, JB spent two to three weeks each fall at ARI to continue being a part of the community. An active and committed trail runner, JB also participated in a marathon each year, creating the Run for Scholarship campaign, raising over US$ 150,000, and supporting 21 participants since 2007. JB’s impact on many people’s lives over the years illustrates his qualities and achievements. Rev. Margaret Hofmeister, AFARI Board President, says, “A significant gift he brought to the organiza- tion as executive director… was his ability to share the ARI story in meaningful and inspiring ways. These were reflections of his commitment to the vision and mission of ARI.” Thank you, JB, for your years of service and generous heart given to ARI.
Earthquake Memorial and
the ARI Becquerel Center
It’s been ten years since the 2011 Great Eastern Japan Earthquake disaster. Every year on March 11th, the anniversary of the earthquake, we hold a worship service to hear about the experiences of that time. This year, we also hosted a commemorative event called “Ten Years from the 3.11 Disaster: Past and Future" featuring Dr. Yasuyuki Fujimura, who led the Nasu community in monitoring local radiation levels after the earthquake. The community effort evolved into the ARI Becquerel Center, which seeks to collect and disseminate valuable information on local radioactive contamination. As of today, the center has measured over 6,000 radiation samples and continues to serve the local commu- nity ten years after the 2011 disaster. John and Frank Sparacio Foundation Funds New Solar Panels Sustainability is one of the fundamental principles that guide ARI. We are 90% self- sufficient in food production, but we buy nearly 80% of our electricity and heating energy. This purchased energy source is predominantly fossil fuel, resulting in a large carbon footprint. New solar panels at ARI are a step towards sustainable energy independence. By installing a solar energy system with a capacity of 17,010 kW, we have decreased our reliance on fossil fuels by 16%. As a result, we have succeeded in reducing our carbon footprint and increasing our energy and financial sustainability. The panels will reduce ARI's carbon footprint by approxi- mately 8,263 kg of CO2 and save approxi- mately US$ 3,700 annually. Installed in September, the solar panels have been producing electricity for ARI since then, and the system is working great! The solar panels will be used as a case study for a course about global warming. In addition, future participants will be able to monitor the electricity produced by the solar panels. Also, the project is a key part of our long-term Sustainable Energy Plan, inspired by the UN Sustainable Develop- ment Goals. Walter Shore’s Record of ARI’s First Year Resurfaces Walter Shore was a founding member of ARI, working beside Takami Sensei. Shore, a farmer, chose the land for ARI to be built on using his knowledge of agriculture. He also helped to sign much of the paperwork for ARI as Takami thought the idea for such a unique school would be more readily accepted coming from an American. For ARI’s 10th anniversary, Shore wrote a book of his involvement and memory of the beginning of ARI, based on his personal journal. Unfortunately, the book was lost until his son, daughter-in-law, and grand- daughter, Bruce Shore, Randi Shore, and Hilary Lynch, recently edited and re-sent it to ARI. This information is an important addition to ARI's archive, as it details the formation of ARI. “[The book] helped us to see the situation in Japan when ARI was created...[Shore] was devoted to this school and the people," says ARI Director Tomoko Arakawa. “I am very appreciative not only of [Shore] but also of his wife and his church for supporting him during his time here."
Strengthening
Connections through
Social Media
The spread of COVID-19 made 2020 a difficult year for accepting visitors. So, we set up a PR team last April with the thought that we would like graduates and those connected to ARI both within Japan and the larger world to “feel close to Asian Rural Institute.” Our team continues to post updates three times weekly on social media: our official Face- book and Instagram accounts. Through sharing ARI’s daily scenery, event information, and alumni stories, our followers have doubled in one year. More than anything, we’re delighted and encouraged by comments that say, “I always look forward to your posts.” Please be sure to check out our updates!
Renewal of
the Official Website
At the end of March 2021, ARI relaunched an official website with new security protocols and completely new design and content. The website was built in-house by our public relations staff, emphasizing a clear presen- tation of ARI’s activities and following ARI’s overall brand strategy. Users now have an easier time finding information on visitor programs, ways of supporting ARI, and our Rural Leaders Training Program. Please visit the website at https://ari-edu.org.
Foodlife Delivered
to Your Home
Hiromi Satô Sales Sales report 020 has been a year of consciously Z  working to strengthen our “coopera- tion sales system” based on creativity and relationships of trust. The pandemic caused the cancelation of about thirty external sales events at churches, schools, and bazaars. Also, the number of visitors to ARI sharply decreased. Usually, there are about 2 million yen (US$ 20,000) in revenue from event sales inside and outside ARI, and about 500,000 yen ($5,000) revenue from our shop. The items are mainly processed in-house and purchased as convenient souvenirs such as coffee, jam, and cookies. We assessed the pandemic situation and decided to prioritize sales of food such as rice, pork, and eggs that are served daily at the table over souvenirs. We believed that pork and eggs, popular with health- conscious people and good-tasting, would be popular with local customers, too. ARI’s sales section focused on delivering and shipping these pork and eggs rather than on manufacturing and process- ing. As the popularity of these products spread, we gained new business partners, such as restaurants that valued organic, locally produced for local consump- tion. Furthermore, welfare facilities in the northern part of Tochigi Prefecture and in mountainous, rural villages became regular customers. We were able to receive large orders from such groups and affiliated sales partners. We also developed a strategy for supporters who already knew ARI prod- ucts and looked forward to purchasing products at events. In place of event selling, we campaigned to sell the “Health Set” by mail order, matching the shipping dates to the mailing of ARI’s Japanese newsletter Ajia no Tsuchi. We changed the Health Set contents three times to match each season. We introduced combinations that consid- ered current trends and the customers’ situations and offered an affordable price. Furthermore, we used social media to promote sales, by preparing a lineup that is appealing, not only for existing support- ers but also for those who contact ARI for the first time. By including back issues of Ajia no Tsuchi and ARI information along with the products, we have devised a way to stimulate interest in the activities of ARI even during the pandemic. As a result, by continuing to do what we could and trying out new things, we increased sales to commuting volunteers and local consumers. Thanks to all the support, our sales exceeded the targeted amount and were above the yearly average. We were able to earn over 12 million yen ($120,000) in sales. Our section was able to transform the pandemic-inspired phrase “minimize travel” to “work with local people and buy local products." “Build immunity” was transformed to “eat local organic, tasty, and most of all, healthy ARI food products." In other words, it was a year of overcoming predicaments and discovering new possi- bilities. 15 14
Your Kindness Is Reaching Us!
Intangible but present more than ever, we are supported by solid connections ooking back on the academic year of 2020, we are overwhelmed with grati- tude. With the global confusion and great uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic continuing, we have appreciated all your support, encouragement, and strength. Here are some examples of the comments that ARI supporters sent in: “This year has seen the unexpected coro- navirus spreading throughout the world far and wide. Especially at such a time, reading your newsletter Ajia no Tsuchi  has helped cleanse my heart and imbued me with hope for the future." (Ms. H., Tomo no Kai in T.) “We are praying that all of your needs will be met and for everyone’s health to be protected during this heavily challeng- ing coronavirus pandemic." (C.F.) “We are always supporting your precious work. I am sure you are facing a difficult time, but we are praying that you will be able to overcome the difficulties and carry on with the valuable work of the Institute." (Y.H.) ARI continues thanks to the behind- the-scenes support, relationships, and prayers offered by so many of you. We are conscious of the kindness that lies behind the support you give us. Your kindness makes us aware that our work is indeed a grand participatory project, embracing those of you within Japan, and indeed, throughout the world, enabling us to fulfill our mission of “training rural leaders” in the hope “that we may live together.” Our training program would not be possible without you. While our staff has not visited in person due to the pandemic, we have reached out to many supporters via letters, telephone, and emails. As a result, we have been able to have conversations with our support- ers, hearing things like how they became involved in supporting ARI. We hope that there will be more chances to connect with them and deepen our bonds in a way that fits in with the character of ARI. During this time, when we have to keep social Kaori Sakuma-Vero General Manager distance from one another, we desire to foster closer human relationships with our supporters. We continue to believe that we are called to carry on with the tradition of honoring the simple, grassroots network of human relationships that have continued unchanged for the last 49 years.
Volunteering During a “New Normal”
ARI’s volunteers in 2020 ast year, we were forced to take new n measures in almost all aspects, includ- ing farm work, meal preparation, academic affairs, and office work. As a result, volun- teers needed to play an even more signif- icant role than in past years while still flexibly adapting to the ever-changing situation. Each year, we receive volunteers from various backgrounds. This year, many applied because their plans to study abroad were canceled or university classes were held online. These changes offered them more freedom to explore their continuing desire to experience something new despite the challenges presented by COVID-19. We saw the number of Japanese volun- teers increase dramatically. In 2020, we had thirteen volunteers from Japan and three from overseas. These numbers had several impacts. When many Japanese volunteers are at ARI, it becomes easier for most people to communicate in Japanese. Due to this, Japanese volunteers tend to gather and inadvertently impair human relationships since it is naturally more challenging for non-Japanese speak- ers to be part of the conversation. Despite this, each volunteer demonstrated a clear understanding and awareness of purpose. They participated in the community and worked diligently on the duties assigned to them. Sometimes, they took the lead in being the driving force of encouragement for the community. ARI tried to devote more time to the volunteers through individual or group consultations, which gave space to acknowledge and support each person and their feelings. However, measures such as asking local commuting volunteers to refrain from activities for a few weeks were put in place according to COVID-19 countermeasure guidelines by ARI and the government. There was concern that rela- tionships could become strained and that some may not return to volunteer. Yet, they too adapted to the guidelines and flexibly participated in various activities. Among the participants, we main- tained the quality of education despite the smaller group. Overall, we were able to steadily continue our activities and life at Hiromi Satô Sales ARI through our work and our meals, both rooted in Foodlife. Society was experiencing abstract anxiet- ies about health and the economy. It was going through constant unpredictable changes throughout the year. In this time, volunteers empathized with the unwaver- ing philosophy of ARI’s Foodlife, Commu- nity of Learning, and Servant Leadership. Some reflected that their thoughts and understanding of life deepened gradually, through daily work, shared within the community. } } } } } } } Overseas Volunteer Sending Bodies ... Brethren Volunteer Service, BVS (USA) Sozialer Friedensdienst Kassel e.V., (Germany), United Methodist Church, Global Ministries (USA), Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ and United Church of Christ) (USA) 16 17 >>>>
Unbroken Support
from Overseas
Ecumenical Relations report ike everyone worldwide, ARI had challenges in 2020. We are L a grateful to all of you, ARI's supporters and partners, individu- als and organizations, who remembered us throughout the year through prayer, caring thoughts, and gifts. Although we could not meet in person at ARI or in your homes or offices, it was encourag- ing to keep in touch by email and video calls. We especially appre- ciate this because we know these times were challenging for you, too. Because you understood our need to pursue our mission and supported us, we were blessed to carry out the 2020 Rural Leaders Training program.
Support for our training
Our local and international connections continued with a virus- mitigation grant from the United Church of Canada used for information and computer technology equipment. The new video conferencing system enables classes with outside lectur- ers, student programs, and overseas graduates. With individual tablets, the classroom can be interactive as participants, lectur- ers, and university students talk with each other directly during discussions instead of seeing a sea of faces on the screen. We also purchased COVID-19 hygiene and protection supplies. We were able to support the unexpected short-term training program in Ghana organized by an ARI Graduate with the help of UC Canada and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA). Scholarship support came from the American Friends of ARI (AFARI), the ELCA, the Methodist Church in Britain, Tokyo Ameri- can Club-Connections, and the United Methodist Church. Work- shop and program support was given by AFARI and the United Church of Christ and the Disciples of Christ (UCC). Although there were travel restrictions, participants visited many local farmers and associations within Japan. We shortened the trips and concen- trated on the most critical topics for the training. Support for study tours came through both the Evangelical Mission in Solidarity, Germany, and the UCC.
Campus and community
Travel restrictions caused the cancellation of internships and over- seas volunteer programs in 2020. We greatly missed having these members add to our community's flavor and diversity by contrib- uting their talents, hard work, and lively discussions each year. Apart from COVID-19, the worldwide epidemics of bird flu and swine fever required new safety measures. Japan’s Livestock Hygiene Center has increased the regulations for raising livestock. A grant from UC Canada offset the costs of a fence required around the pigpen buildings and hygiene equipment that must be worn by all workers going into the area. (1) Participants observe the countryside of Kyūshū during the Western Japan Study Tour (2) The new video conferencing system in ARI's classroom (3) Preventive fencing around the pig pens
Our Supporters & Partners
Overseas Individual Donors Makiko Abe Manosi Abe Chatterjee Bev Abma in memory of John Hoover, Marjorie Tarr, and Noriko Lao Michelle and Murry Acosta Micah Anderson Anonymous Minami Aoyagi Tomoko Arakawa Eugene and Lois Bakko Verlyn L. Barker John Bayles Martha Bessac Gordon & Janet Blake Dan and Barbara Bohi Colleen Bookter Paul and Sharon Brokaw Colleen Brooks Lawrence and Cora Brown Patricia Budiman Rachel Buller Kathy Burton-Lewis Mary Chafey Harry Chandler Diana Chapel Anne Chase Ginger Church in memory of Marjorie Tarr Fred G. Clark Dave Coatsworth and Rebecca Dickinson in honor of Bob and Joyce Ray John Cobb Mary Anne and Ephraim Cohen Leonard Condenzio Ben Cope Margaret Crowl Elizabeth Cutting Steven and Miki Cutting Richard & Alice Dailey Kenneth and Eloise Dale Adam Darragh Mrs. Sherry DeLeon Mary Ann DeVries and Tom Schlife Lois Dickason David Dickinson Margie Dickinson Skip and Derry Dickinson in memory of Toshihiro "Tom" Takami Fred and Carol Edmonds Naarah Eichenauer Dick & Flo Erlanger in honor of Rev. Margret Hofmeister Linda Erlanger Bette Faber Lynne Fackayan Mary Ferguson Carolyn Francis Bill and Joanne Fraser Dean and Elsie Freudenberger Kathy Froede Ben and Carol Fujita Joan Fumetti in honor of Bev Abma Martha Gale and Bob Carpenter Bruce and Karen Garven Jeremiah Gatlin Jo and Ken Gelhaus Stephen and Emiko Gerdes Dick and Anne Gillett Jack and Rosalyn Gillisse Donald and Melinda Goodick Daniel and Hiroko Goto James and Noriko Goto Ann Graham Susie Guise Betsy Hale Hunter Hale Mark Hamamoto in memory of Joanne Hamamoto Marcia Hampton Peg and Harry Hampton Reuben Haq Margaret Hardenbergh & Carl Wies in honor of Rev. Margret Hofmeister Julius Hardt Pam and Souk Hasegawa in memory of Gretchen DeVnes Nagi Hashiba Jacqueline Haslett Tom and Carol Hastings Paul Hastings Nelima Hazra Lorna and Will Henkel Clip Higgins John E. Hill and Jeannette Dejong David and Sandra Hirano Charity Hoffman in memory of Daniel Hoffman Renee Hoffman in honor of Meredith Hoffman Jill Hofmeister Theresa Hofmeister Margret Hofmeister Michele Holowachuk William and Eleanor Honaman Ashley Hoover Barbara Rose Hoover Adeline Hoover John Hoover Brooke and Michele Hoover J.B. and Adeline Hoover in memory of Marjorie Tarr and Randy Osborne Cheri Howe John Hoyt Nancy and Thomas Inui Joan Ishibashi Sawako Iwata Vincent James Annette Jim David Johnson in memory of Evelyn Kroehler Nancy Jones Kyoko and Hatsuhiko Kageyama Gabriele Kasper Eunice Kaymen Kay Kessel-Hanna David Kessler We express our gratitude to the many donors. A list of individuals, congregations and other organizations in Japan who donated toward ARI during fiscal 2020 can be found in the Japanese version of the 2020 Annual Report and Ajia no Tsuchi , our Japanese language newsletter. Rhen Kiemel Nobuyuki Kikuchi Takashi Kikuchi Douglas and Marjorie Kinsey Mary Jo Kremer LaVerne Kroehler in memory of Bill Kroehler Evelyn Kroehlen Ronald and Elizabeth Kutscher Annie Jane Lagawan Richard Lammers Martin and Barbara Lang Noriko Lao Dot Larking and Bradford Connolly in honor of Alice Friend Carl Lathon James Latimer Jim and Gretchen Lewis Marni Logan Margaret Logan and Rolfe Larson Will Lutterman Hilary Lynch Roy Magantino George and Joyce Magee Darwin Mann Julia Manners in memory of Roger and Betsy Manners Ellen and Jim Marsey Kathleen Matsushima Ken and Diane Matsuura Patrick and Eunice McArdle Jennifer McClure Barbara Mensendiek Marvin Miller Mike and Donna Miller Eleanor Moore Elizabeth Mooy Michiko and Tom Morgan Jack Moss in honor of Carolyn Moss, Ashley Erickson, and Randy Roeser Barbara L. Mueller Mary Nakamura in honor of Emma Nakamura Kaori and Gary Natsume Emily Nelson Bud and Shirley Nelson Joel Nichols Betsy Olsen Stan and LoAnne Olson Takashi Otani Kevin O'Toole Aaron Owen Bill Pallett Albert Papp Katherine Parker Donald Patenaude Marti Peterson Mary Margaret Pruitt Monica Quill Bob and Joyce Ray Sarah Reed Harris Stefan Reiff Nancy Rheingrover Turner Ritchie Carolyn Rodenberg Patricia and Randy Roeser Overseas Donor Organizations Ken and Connie Sansome Mariellen Sawada-Yoshino Lisa Schaechter Ken Schmidt Gina Sebastiano Joy and Gerald Sekimura Kay Shanks Janet Shoger Pete and Dotty Smith Frances B Sperry Barb Stapleton Keitha and Jim Swaim Lee and Dotty Swan Mark Swanson Evelyn and Donald Sweetsen Steve and Doris Tabuchi Sachi Taketa Norma Taplin Stephen Tarr Katherine Tegtmeyer Pak Robert and Hazel Terhune Mutsezo Tetseo Paul Thompson Rich Thorngren in memory of Rich Thorngren Jim and Kathryn Treece Judith Turley Warren Uesato Arnout van der Pol Glenn Van Haitsma Theivendaram Vigneswaran Ellen Webster Ben and Carolyn Whitehill Pallop and Karen Wilairat Sharon Wilson and Van Bobbitt in honor of J.B. Hoover Janet and Gene Witt Hugh and Sandria Woodruff Rebecca Wright Angela Xiong Roy and Frances Yamaki Britt Yamamoto Shari and Tru Yamamoto Judy Yasutake Rosanna Yates-Bailey in honor of Noriko Lao Lawrence and Jean Young Amazon Smile Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ELCA Evangelical Mission in Solidarity (EMS), Germany First Congregational Church in Amherst - UCC, Amherst, MA First United Methodist Church of Clermont Friendship Christian Reformed Church Global Ministries - The United Methodist Church Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ and United Church of Christ) Harris United Methodist Church, Honolulu, HI Javan and Neva Corl Family Foundation Kitchell Memorial Presbyterian Church, NJ Saint Alban's Anglican-Episcopal Church, Japan Shalom United Church of Christ, New Haven, CT The Methodist Church in Britian - World Church Office The United Church of Canada Tokyo American Club - Connections United Methodist Committee on Relief UMCOR Wesley United Methodist Church, San Jose, CA Legacy Circle >>>>> Fred G. Clark Kenneth and Eloise Dale Kathy Froede Pam and Souk Hasegawa David and Sandra Hirano J.B. and Adeline Hoover LaVerne Kroehler Ellen and Jim Marsey Rosalind Morris Marti Peterson Bob and Joyce Ray Craig Rice and Ameeta Sony Lisa Schaechter Kay Shanks Bardwell Smith Don and Marjorie Tarr Jim and Kathryn Treece 18 19
COVID-19 is Global,
and so are ARI’s
Graduates
Graduate Outreach report Steven Cutting Graduate Outreach Coordinator
ARI graduates go online
  graduate) is so remote that it takes four hours on a motorbike through densely jungled mountain paths to reach it. Yet, the moment I arrived there in February 2020, the first question I got was, “Did you have any trouble traveling because of COVID- 19?" The fact that news of the coronavirus had already reached this isolated village gave me a shocking realization of what a global pandemic is. Over the next months, I checked in with graduates everywhere and found their accounts to be strikingly similar. Harsh restrictions, economic hardships, deaths, and illnesses in their communities matched the situation in Japan. Strangely, this shared experience made me feel closer to the scattered “ARI family.” I was moved by the many instances of resilience and love. Several graduates shared how even as food in the markets became scarce and prices shot up, they had plenty to eat and even to share. Knowing the value of food self-sufficiency, their gardens were full of produce. Also, as stalwart community leaders, they took early action to help others in whatever way they could. This year, ARI partner organizations conducted international conferences online, giving graduates the chance to participate as they never had before. Many graduates attended the ECHO International Agricultural Conference in the USA. Sierra Leone graduate Mambud Samai (2019 grad- uate) presented at the Oxford Real Farming (Online)Conference about “the healing role of farming” in his work with amputees from that country’s brutal civil war. Moving online has enabled ARI to invite graduates as guest lecturers. During the 2020 Graduate Seminar, Wesly Lingga logged in from Indonesia, bringing his wisdom as an organic farmer and village leader to the classroom. This success has inspired us to expand the role of graduates in the training program. Combating the Negative Stigma of COVID-19 Lidia Naibaho Indonesia – '11 Graduate In 2019-20, Lidia studied Sustainable International Agriculture at the University of Göttingen, Germany. One of the most worrying aspects of COVID-19 is the emergence of stigmas against those suffering from this illness. Such stigmas affect not only the individual who is sick but also their family members. Neighbors of a relative of a COVID-19 patient insulted him and threatened to drive him out of the village. In another place, residents refused the burial of a COVID-19 victim in a public cemetery. Health monitoring teams were also distrusted by villagers. These stigmas arose because of a lack of information and because of many false rumors and hoaxes on social media. Because of my worries and my desire to help the community, even though I am in Germany, I coordinated with my friends to build an initiative called “Dairi We Care” in my hometown in the Dairi Regency of North Sumatra. One of our activities is to educate society to stop stigmatization. Thankfully, these stigmas are in decline. Government containment measures, such as closing schools, proved the seriousness of our message. Now the public understands that anyone can catch COVID-19 and by following health protocols they can avoid infection. Slowly, Indonesians are adjusting to “the new normal” of life amid a pandemic. RADUATE STORY Messages from Graduates Crisis Builds a Vibrant and Strong Personality Patrick Kullie Liberia - '19 Graduate Voinjama Free Pentecostal Church In spring, at the height of the pandemic, the Liberian government declared a state of emergency, so I moved my family to my village farm. There we could easily grow our own organic crops. We had absolutely no worry about food and could avoid crowds. People were happy. Today, we are back in town. Schools are open again and I have started an agriculture project called Farm for Education Program. Looking back at 2020, I feel that the crisis has built in me a vibrant and strong person- ality. This is the third major crisis I have experienced in my life. First, there was the Liberian civil war. Then came the 2014 Ebola outbreak which was far more deadly and destructive than the coronavirus. Now we have COVID-19. In these times our minds, bodies, and spirits are developing to respond to the emergency. These crises remind us that life is fragile and unpredictable, and at some point, we are all weak and need others. Earth Lunch Boxes Lucinei Telles Brazil –  '10 Graduate Landless Workers Movement, Movimento dos Trabalhadores Rurais Sem Terra (MST) Since May, the beginning of COVID-19, MST has had a new program called Marmitas da Terra (Earth Lunch Boxes). MST, together with other organizations in the countryside and the city, are making and distributing 700 meals a week to homeless folks and other vulnerable people. Food materials are donated by both landless farmers from our movement and landowning farming fami¬ lies. This is a way to continue the work of MST here in Curitiba, Parana State, that goes far beyond the distribution of land through agrarian reform. In February we reached 40,000 donated Earth Lunch Boxes! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marmitas_daterra 20 21 Asian Rural Institute expresses its sincere gratitude for your support.
Balance Sheet
ARI experienced a decrease in assets of approximately $450,000 from 2019 to 2020. This includes the termination of a draft at maturity. Despite this decrease, we were able to fund reserves of approximately $49,000 to support retirement benefits and facility equipment maintenance. Liabilities also decreased by approximately $68,000, allowing us to repay long-term debt and school bond redemption. In anticipation of tight cash flow due to the pandemic, we have an approved loan of $270,000 and issued new school bonds of $97,000 to help stabilize finances.
Statement of Revenue and Expenses
(a) Tuition scholarships and fees $208,000
Due to a decrease in the number of training participants from overseas, we received less funding for scholarships. Some scholarship organiza¬ tions changed their contribution from a restricted scholarship to an unrestricted donation or scholarship.
(b)Donations: $692,000
We experienced an increase in donations (does not include scholar- ship and travel fees) over last year of 132%. We secured $130,000 in emergency support for COVID-19 and received several large donations from individuals. Domestic: Individual donations increased by nearly 118% over last year and organizational donations decreased by nearly 90% as a result of the pandemic. Overseas: Increase of funds is as a result of a planned 3-year distribu- tion of funds from the United Church of Canada.
(c) Subsidies $29,000
We received subsidies last year: $7,000 for student support from the Ministry of Education, Cultures, Sports, Science and Technology, $1200 for elementary school leave for three staff members from the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare, and $18,000 from the National Relief Fund.
(d)Sales and Special Services $180,000
The majority of the income is derived from Services, including visi¬ tors and groups, both domestic and overseas. Our services income decreased 79% due to lack of visitors and cancelled programs. However, we were able to minimize the impact of this reduction by generating income from meals paid by working visitors, long-term volunteers, etc. In Sales we were able to maintain the same income as last year and saw an increase of nearly 120% from livestock products.
General Overview
Both income and expenses decreased proportionally with the end balance remaining comparable to previous years. In anticipation of future chal¬ lenges, we secured relief loans that allowed us to carry forward unre- stricted funds. Complete financials will be made available  upon request. Although we were able to minimize the financial impact of the pandemic, cash flow remains tight. We predict that finances and operations will continue to remain tight throughout the duration of the pandemic. We remain focused on creating a sustainable campus and continue to develop strategies to achieve these goals during the pandemic while stabilizing our finances. We ask for continued support from our partners as we strive for a world with a fair, peaceful and healthy environment in which individuals can maximize their potential. Donations by Category ●  Domestic Donations ●  Overseas Donations ● Special Donations ● Grants

Auditors’ Statement
The above duly audited financial statements have been prepared by the Fujinuma Tax and Accounting Service, Inc, and approved by the ARI auditors, Mr. Ôkubo and Mr. Murata. All the documents were properly kept and there were no irregulanties. May 12, 2021 Asian Rural Institute Auditor: Tomohiro Ôkubo
Notes
The information on these 2 pages is a direct translation of the Japanese original and follows the requirements of Japanese accounting regulations. 1 Scholarship and fees include Japanese and overseas participants' tuition. Tuition and travel fees for overseas participants are covered by donations and scholarships from supporting organizations and individuals. 2 Special donations include donations (individuals/groups) that are over $2,500. Donations under $2,500 are in General Donations. 3 Revenues are derived from organizing seminars, programs, sales of farm products, and folk art crafts. Balance Sheet
Currency: USD Exchange rate: USD 1 = JPY 110.71
Kaori Sakuma-Vero General Manager 22
Statement of Revenue and Expenditure
2020 Budget (Revised Nov. 2020) 204,514 23,160 71,087 21,533 58,447 750,643 486,603 106,585 108,391 49,103 222,525 151,166 112,874 170,445 36,894 26,055 1,170,835
1,170,835 23
😉 Curriculum
Leadership Leadership Servant Leadership ARI History and Mission Participatory Learning and Action Independent Learner Time Management Presentation Skills Presentation Skills 2 Facilitation Skills Religion and Rural Life Report Guidance Coaching Peace, Justice and Reconciliation Dignity Workshop
Development Issues
Environment and Development Nutrition and Development Home Economy Credit Union Localization Gender Issues Ashio Copper Mine and Shôzô Tanaka Climate Change Challenge Nasu Canal and Rural Development Japan's Organic Farming Movement and JA Rural Development in Kawanishi Community Development Strategy in Yufuin Nagai Rainbow Plan and Yoshihide Kanno SDGs and ARI curriculum Homeless Issue in Japan
Sustainable Agriculture/Technology
Organic Farming Crops and Vegetables Rice Cultivation Livestock Disease Control of Crops and Vegetables Disease Control of Livestock Dangers of Chemical Farming Natural Farming in Tropical Areas Alternative Marketing Systems Biogas workshop Agricultural technique Livestock technique Meat processing Graduate Seminar Organizational Sustainability
Japanese Language
Intensive Language class, Japanese culture *Special lecturer Tomoko Arakawa Tomoko Arakawa, Yukiko Öyanagi Tomoko Arakawa Tomoko Arakawa, Yukiko Öyanagi Yukiko Öyanagi Timothy B. Appau Yukiko Ôyanagi Zacivolu Rhakho Dozo* Yukiko Öyanagi Jonathan McCurley, Timothy B. Appau Kathy Froede Yukiko Oyanagi Akiko Ishihara" (Kumamoto University) Jeffrey Mensendiek"(J. F. Oberlin University) Masahisa Sato" (Tokyo City University), Yukiko Öyanagi Ikumi Kanamori Zacivolu Rhakho Dozo* Gilbert Hoggang Yôji Kamata" (NPO Ancient Futures) Tomoko Arakawa Tatsuo Sakahara * (NPO Shôzô Tanaka University) Yoshiyuki Nagata" (University of the Sacred Heart) Yukiko Ôyanagi Yukiko Ôyanagi Shunji Harada* Steven Cutting Yukiko Oyanagi Manosi Abe Chatterjee Yukiko Öyanagi, Manosi Abe Chatterjee Osamu Arakawa Osamu Arakawa Osamu Arakawa Gilbert Hoggang, Takashi Ōtani, Timothy B. Appau Osamu Arakawa Gilbert Hoggang, Takashi Ötani, Timothy B. Appau Kôa Tasaka" Shimpei Murakami" (Zenkoku Ainô-Kai) Reina Tomatsu* (Kinôshijuku Farm) Mamoru Kuwabara* (NPO Fûdo) Osamu Arakawa, Masanobu Sakurai Gilbert Hoggang, Takashi Ötani, Timothy B. Appau Takashi Ōtani, Hideo Koide" (Neu Frank Nasu) Wesly Lingga" ('93 graduate, '99 TA, Indonesia), Zacivolu Rhakho Dozo" ('00 graduate, India) Kyôko Ogura"
Practical Field Study
Crops & Vegetables Emphasis Bokashi fertilizer making, compost making, collection and utilization of indigenous microorganisms, fermented plant juice, fish amino acid, water-soluble calcium, charcoal and wood vinegar making, rice husk charcoal, seed collection, seedling nursing using soil blocks, mushroom cultivation Livestock Emphasis Pigs (artificial insemination, delivery, castration), chickens (brooding), fish farming, livestock disease control, feed formulation, fermented feed, animal raising with fermented floor Meat Processing Sausage and ham making
Field Management Activities
Group farm management (vegetable crop cultivation and livestock management) Foodlife work (farm work and food preparation for self-sufficiency) Group leadership system
Others
Community work (rice transplanting, rice harvesting, etc.), activities to promote spiritual growth (Morning Gathering, consultation, reflection paper, reflection day), oral presentations, Harvest Thanksgiving Celebration, international fellowship programs, observation trips, Rural Community Study Tour, Western Japan Study Tour, etc.
Tomohiro Okubo Sakae Murata Nasu Y's Mens Club Fujii Industries Inc., Operating Officer
Board of Councilors

Hôichi Endô Yukiko Ôyanagi Hideharu Kadowaki Rev. Isao Kikuchi Rev. Hikari Kokai Chang Kaori Sakuma-Vero Rev. Chun SangHyun Kiyoshi Nagashima Yoshiyuki Nagata Rev. Ban HyungWook Mitsuo Fukumoto Rev. Masaoki Hoshino Kazue Yamaguchi Masahiko Yamane Michiru Yoneda Sarajean Rossitto Board
Director, Asian Rural Institute Pastor, UCCJ Reinanzaka Church Special Advisor and Senior Fellow, The Japan Research Institute, Limited. Representative Director, Wesley Foundation Special Advisor, Hotel Sunvalley Nasu Former Professor, Kwansei Gakuin University Former Board Chair & Former Director, Asian Rural Institute Pastor, NSKK Shimodate Anglican-Episcopal Church Former Managing Director, Kagawa Education Institute of Nutrition Tomoko Arakawa Osamu Arakawa Yukiko Öyanagi
Staff

Kaori Sakuma-Vero Manosi Chatterjee-Abe Steven Cutting Junko Tanaka Timothy B. Appau Jonathan McCurley Meredith Hoffman Satomi McCurley Masanobu Sakurai Takashi Ôtani Gilbert Hoggang Ryô Maki (Mar 2021-) Ikumi Kanamori Ramon Labial Raku Izawa Mitsue Kimijima Kaori Andô Kathy Froede Takashi Yamashita Ruyipa Vero Noriko Nakayama Hiromi Satô Masayo Fukushima Terra LoPresti (-Dec.) Yuko Emura (Mar.2021-)
Outsourcing Staff
Thomas Itsuo Fujishima Jun Yagisawa Branding, ID System Designer, Media Designer Media Designer, Editor
Volunteers
Commuting Volunteers Food Life (Farm) Izumi Chaen, Tetsu Hayashi, Tsutomu Nishimura, Aki Sekiguchi Foodlife (FEAST) Chihiro Azuma, Yûko Kimura, Yumi Suzuki, Kyôko Takamura, Michiko Hayashi, Kanako Murayama General Affairs Masuo Shimizu (& Farm), Takashi Fushimi Sales Volunteers Fundr. & Dorm Pr (Sales) Mie Inomata, Shigeki Kashiwaya, Mayuko Sugita, Norie Horiuchi, Takashi Miyake Becquerel Center Takashi Akutsu, Yukio Takashima, Takayuki Hayasaka, Shôhei Fujimoto (& Sales), Mineki Nishikawa Long-Term Volunteers Curriculum (Admissions) Maria Abigail Hernandez Curriculum (Community Life) Yu-Rong Wang (& Admissoins, FEAST) Foodlife (Farm) Sôta Ono, Miki Kanai, Nico Jinno (& FEAST), Chihiro Suzuki (& Sales), Eiko Tanaka (& FuRa ), Rina Tanaka ( & Graduate Outoreach), Masato Take, Donna Borchsenius (& Community Life) Foodlife (FEAST) Natsu Abe (& Farm), Eri Okada (& Farm), Connie Steele (& Community Life), Raisa Hinrichs (& Farm), Haruka Yamaguchi (& Farm), Momoko Watanabe (& PR) Ecumenical Relations Emily Renee Bowdle (& Admissions), Caitlin O'Quinn, Kai Shinoda, Judy Carl (& Community Life, Sales) General Affairs Yûko Emura ( & Farm) Graduate Outreach Takahiro Yoshino (& PR) Associate Director, Education Director, Farm Manager (Foodlife) Associate Director, Curriculum Coordinator General Manager (General Affairs) Curriculum (Admissions) Curriculum (Graduate Outreach) Curriculum (Library) Chaplain, Curriculum (Community Life), Foodlife (Livestock) Chaplain, Curriculum (Community Life) Curriculum (Community Life) Curriculum (Community Life) Foodlife (Crops & Vegetables) Foodlife (Livestock) Foodlife (Livestock) Foodlife (Livestock) Foodlife (FEAST) Foodlife (FEAST) General Affairs General Affairs (Accounting) General Affairs Ecumenical Relations Fundraising & Domestic Programs (External Programs & Nasu Seminar House Manager) Fundr. & Dom. Pr. (Nasu Seminar House Caretaker) Fundr. & Dom. Pr. (PR, External Programs) Fundr. & Dom. Pr. (Sales, PR) Fundr. & Dom. Pr. (Food Processing) Fundr. & Dom. Pr. (Supporter's Support, PR) Fundr. & Dom. Pr. (Supporter's Support, PR) Total training time : 1,880 hours
Community Members
Associate Director, Asian Rural Institute Director, Asian Rural Institute Lawyer, Tono-Tanami Law Office Parish Priest, Roman Catholic Diocese of Niigata Former Staff, Asian Rural Institute Associate Director, Asian Rural Institute Special Advisor and Senior Fellow, The Japan Research Institute, Limited. Archbishop, Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Tokyo Representative Director, Wesley Foundation General Manager, Asian Rural Institute Pastor, The Korean Christian Church in Japan, Sapporo Church Former staff, Asian Rural Institute Professor, University of the Sacred Heart Pastor, UCCJ Nishinasuno Church Principal, Nishinasuno Kindergarten Pastor, UCCJ Aikawa Mission Former Representative, National Tomo no Kai Former Managing Director, Kagawa Education Institute of Nutrition Superior General, The Sisters of the Visitation NGO/NPO Consultant 24 . 25 {
The 2020 Graduates   ≈≈
Rural Leaders Training Program
India Indonesia Vietnam Kenya Ghana Rwanda Japan Advanced Training Course Japan (11) Ryô Maki (1) Shothayi Dozo  (Grace Home Khutsokhuno) (2) Agustinus Adil  (Parish Church of St Theresia) (3) Tran Thi Bich Thanh  (That Duong Vietnam) (4) Celestine Mitsanze (Institute of Participatory Development) (5) Martin Gikunda Kirigia (Methodist Church in Kenya) (6) Mwalimu Shehe Muzungu  (Magarini Children Center and Organic Farming Demonstration Farm) (?)  Joshua Ofori Suttah  (Presbyterian Church of Ghana) (8) Saidath Murorunkwere  (Dufatanye Organization) (9) Yûta Kimura (10)  Hiroka Komatsubara } } }    It's Time to Invest in Rural Community Leadership The Asian Rural Institute is a school that promotes learning to live together while training leaders from grassroots rural communities. It is supported by forward-thinking people who care about a sustainable future. Would you like to join with your financial support? Donate from Japan Account: (Postal Money Order) 00340-8-8758 Name of account: Gakko Hojin Ajia Gakuin (Asian Rural Institute) Donate from Overseas Please visit http://www.ari-edu.org/en/ support/bank/ to learn about different ways to support and donate to ARI. sian Rural Institute Rural Leaders Training Center address Tsukinukizawa, 442-1 Tochigi. Nasushiobara email info@ari-edu.org 0287-36-3111 tel fax 0287-37-5833 329-2703 JAPAN J 9qj9goT 9qjT fgm 9W (TZDZ ´ TE 4518M of DZDZ ´ I lingA)  thoges le nuna DZDZ ewesigeY null , smidsiju7 ous11 semodT , 019/-emude2 hobX , swederA ollomoT : sholi b3 website Facebook www.ari-edu.org Asian Rural Institute Instagram @asian_rural_institute