JII/OFP【#03】Supporting as a friend who can share worries while enjoying interactions (Otonari-san Volunteer Experience)

Person A: I want to make use of my English skills.

I had originally worked overseas, so I was able to converse in English, but after returning to Japan, I didn't really use that skill much. It felt like a waste of a valuable skill, and I thought I could help someone who might need it, so I searched online for "English volunteer (location)" and found this opportunity. I wanted to make sure that while utilizing my English skills, I could help foreigners feel like they had a great time in Japan and would want to come back, which is why I decided to join Otonari-san.

A: It was a period of preparation for developing a friendship that would continue to grow.

Before engaging in one-on-one interactions, we had a video call on Zoom with the coordinator, and they turned out to be just as impressive as I had imagined. I was able to talk naturally without feeling nervous from the start. I really appreciated the opportunity to meet on Zoom before pairing up, as it significantly lowered the barriers for our actual one-on-one meeting.

During the period, we went out to have fun about once a month, spending a whole day somewhere. We enjoyed activities like city sightseeing and ocean fishing, making sure to do things that were new experiences for our partners.

About two months after we started communicating, there was a period of about one to two months where I didn't hear from them. Even when I reached out, the conversation didn't flow much, which made me wonder if I had left a bad impression when we met. Later, I realized that it was simply the busiest time for them at work, and after that, we resumed our normal meetings and conversations. I had taken the stance that I would be there to support them when they needed a partner, so I waited for their contact without any particular worries, and that resolved the situation.

I believe that a six-month period is appropriate for supporting the initial phase until a friendship develops and the two individuals can manage on their own. In my case, my partner and I hit it off quite quickly, and there were no issues, so having the coordinator observe us for just 3 to 4 months was sufficient.

Now that the period has ended, there is no longer a distinction between those providing support and those receiving it; we have become friends. Ultimately, my partner has opened up to me about their concerns, and as I expected, our friendship continues even after the program has ended. We are still in touch and are planning to go hiking together soon.

Q:What message would you like to convey to those interested in volunteering with Otonari-san?

Person A: I realized that it's difficult for foreigners when they have no one to confide in about their troubles.

Through the program, I have come to realize that for foreigners, it may be more painful to be in a situation where there is no one to confide in about their struggles, rather than just needing help with daily life or language.

My partner was feeling stressed about the work environment and had no one to vent to. Usually, we communicate in Japanese, and my partner always speaks with a smile and positivity. However, when I became a listening ear, they opened up in English, sharing their worries without holding back.

In our usual interactions, I believe that while we enjoyed leisure activities together, a significant portion was dedicated to "teaching Japanese." However, even if it's infrequent, the fact that "there is at least one person in Japan to vent my frustrations to" can provide a considerable sense of relief.

Before participating, I had the impression that volunteering was about the relationship between "those in need" and "those who help," where the helper inevitably has to put in a certain amount of effort. However, after actually getting involved, it felt more like I had gained a good friend to talk to occasionally, rather than having to do something hands-on. The person I was paired with didn't require extensive Japanese language skills or daily life support; just having someone to talk to nearby seemed to be a source of support. So, I think volunteering doesn't have to be seen as something so difficult.

I think the activities of Otonari-san that make us aware of such things are wonderful. I hope they continue, and if anyone is in need, I would be happy to help again if I can.