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Volunteer
Our Volunteer Programs
Would You Like to Work with Us?
If you are interested in working alongside people of diverse nationalities, practicing a sustainable lifestyle, or experiencing life in an English-speaking environment, we warmly invite you to join ARI as a volunteer.
We welcome not only those who enjoy farm work, but also individuals who are willing to share their skills, experiences, music, and ideas. There are two types of volunteer opportunities: Residential Volunteers (staying on campus for 3 to 12 months) and Commuting Volunteers (participating at least once a month).
If you resonate with ARI’s mission and purpose, we encourage you to apply.
Types of Volunteer Programs
Residential Volunteer
Residential volunteers live on campus for 3–12 months, sharing daily life with participants in the dormitories. They play an essential role in supporting ARI’s daily operations, farm work, and community life.
We welcome people of all ages, backgrounds, skills, and faiths. Through a simple lifestyle that values food and life, and through humble daily work, volunteers gain meaningful insights and personal growth.
Commuting Volunteers
Commuting volunteers are mainly local residents who regularly visit the campus and help with daily tasks on a non-residential basis. While contributing their skills and experience, they can also enjoy being part of an international community.
What Makes Volunteering at ARI Unique
Life in a Multinational, Multicultural Community
Living and working alongside people from diverse backgrounds allows volunteers to learn from differences in culture and values. English is the common language, and monthly community events offer opportunities not only to participate but also to plan and organize activities, fostering deeper connections.
Experience a Sustainable Lifestyle
At ARI, anyone—regardless of prior farming experience—can experience a self-sufficient lifestyle. From agriculture to food systems and energy use, daily life is shaped by sustainability, offering a tangible understanding of how we can live in the future.
An Exceptional Environment for Personal Growth
ARI provides a supportive environment for personal development. Through regular volunteer meetings, counseling, and reflection during morning gatherings, volunteers deepen their understanding of themselves and their experiences. Daily dialogue and reflection lead to meaningful growth.
Work Areas and Responsibilities
At ARI, you will be surrounded by people, learning together about ARI’s philosophy of sharing, serving, and being good stewards of the environment. There are many opportunities to get involved in your work section and during free time, to create a day full of joy.
Crops & Vegetables
Growing about 60 types of vegetables, rice, and wheat
Livestock
Caring for pigs, chickens, carp, ducks; biogas system management; feed preparation; egg distribution
Meal Service
Meal preparation and food management
Community Life
Supporting a healthy living environment
Ecumenical Relations
Supporting overseas partners (email and Zoom communication)
Admissions
Handling applications from overseas organizations
Graduate Outreach
Assisting staff with office work
Japanese Ability Required
Food Processing
Producing items such as cookies and jam
Japanese Ability Required
Sales
Packaging and shipping ARI products
General Affairs
Administrative and maintenance tasks
Japanese Ability Required
Communications & PR
Digital media, marketing, photography, video, website, and social media
Japanese Ability Required
Nasu Seminar House (Accommodation)
Managing facilities and supporting guests
Japanese Ability Required
Learning Integrated with Daily Life
From morning to night, every moment at ARI is an opportunity for learning and growth. Communal living and shared work are central to developing leadership.
A Day in the Life of Participants
6:30 Morning Activities
7:00 Foodlife Work
8:15 Breakfast
9:30 Morning Gathering
10:20 Classes
12:30 Lunch
13:45 Classes
16:00 Foodlife Work
18:30 Supper
Morning Activities
Radio exercises, prayer, and campus cleaning
Foodlife Work
Farming, livestock care, and cooking, shared morning and evening
Morning Gathering
Daily reflection and sharing
Shared Meal
Multicultural, organic meals prepared together
Dormitory Life
Living with people of diverse cultures and religions
Classes
Lectures, farm practice, and field visits。
A Year at ARI – Community Events
Life at ARI is a continuous rhythm of learning, working, praying, and sharing meals with participants from around the world. Seasonal farming, training, and events nurture the ability to “live together” across cultural differences.
Volunteers are not just supporters—they are part of the community. They can help plan and run monthly events and participate in various campus activities.
April
Opening Ceremony, Sakura Viewing
May
Rice Transplanting
June
ARI Sunday (Church Services)
July
Cultural Programs
August
Bon Dance Festival
September
Rice Harvesting
October
Harvest Thanksgiving Ceremony
November
Forestory Service
December
Snow Viewing, Commencement Service
January
Volunteer goes on
Feburuary
Dorm Cleaning
March
Preparation for new participants
How to Apply
Requirements and Conditions
| Eligibility | 20 years or older; physically and mentally fit to actively engage in assigned tasks |
| Working Hours | Monday–Friday; approx. 7.5 working hours/day, with participation in activities between 6:30–17:00 |
| Costs |
A meal subsidy system is available upon request. Bicycles are available during your stay. A small deposit of ¥100 is required for maintenance (approx. 15 minutes to the nearest station by bike). |
| Application Process | If you prefer to apply by mail, we will send you an application form. Please submit it by post. Applicants are required to undergo a health check-up in advance to ensure they can live and work on campus for an extended period. Please send the medical certificate along with your application. Assignment to a department will be determined based on needs and applicant numbers, and may not always match your preference. Please note:
|
Commuting Volunteer (Non-residential) – Requirements & Conditions
| Eligibility | 20 years or older; physically and mentally fit to actively engage in assigned tasks. |
| Working Hours | Monday to Friday: ① 10:20–12:30 ② 13:45–16:00 ③ 10:20–16:00 |
| English Proficiency | Varies depending on the assigned work; practical English skills are desirable. |
| Capacity | Varies by department. Please contact us for details. |
| Cost | Volunteers are responsible for their own transportation expenses. |
| How to Apply | Please contact us by phone or email to inquire about openings in each department. After an interview, we will determine whether we are able to accept your application. Notes
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FAQ
Do I need prior experience?
No. Everyone learns through practice at ARI. We most value a strong motivation for group work and an open mind to diverse challenges.
Do I need to be Christian?
No. However, you are expected to respect and commit to ARI’s motto, “Living Together.” While ARI is rooted in Christianity, people of various faiths and beliefs live and work together in mutual respect.
Can friends or family visit during my stay?
Yes, they are very welcome. Please contact the visitor coordinator to reserve accommodation. Guests are asked to cover accommodation and meal costs. Rates vary depending on the type of stay. Separate rooms may be arranged if you have roommates.
Inquiry
If you wish to apply, please contact us via the inquiry form below, or by phone or email.
Phone: +81-287-36-3111
Email: [email protected]
