Click here to return to the hompage. Click here to return to the homepage.

JASO sponsors a wide variety of programs every month including business, cultural, educational and public service programs. Most of our programs are open to the public with JASO members receiving discounts on registration fees. Program announcements are sent to JASO members each month with registration information. You must be a member of JASO to receive program information.


New Professional Network Mentorship Program

Program Overview:
This program is meant to help further the professional development of JASO members. The idea is to provide an avenue for our members to seek advice or learn more about a specific field or area of interest. This program pairs mentee candidates with members matching those descriptions. Ideally, apart from the nine month time commitment, mentors and mentees will define the nature of their relationship.

Mentee Guidelines:

  • Ask questions and learn as much as you can. Be upfront with what you would like to gain from this relationship.

  • While communication is encouraged, mentees should realize that mentors are volunteers who have other demands on their time.

  • Be considerate of both the reasons as well as the frequency of contact you have with your mentor.

  • Any activities with costs associated with them are to be considered dutch treat unless noted otherwise.

  • Attempt to be as flexible as possible with your schedule.

  • Provide feedback to the committee regarding the program and how it could be improved.

  • top of page


    Business and Public Affairs Programs

    The Japan Forum
    Annual series of high-level programs that address Japan/Asia-related issues of importance to this region and to the U.S.-Japan relationship as a whole. 6 programs are planned each year featuring highly visible guest speakers and regional business, government and opinion leaders.

    The JASO Business Council Series
    Annual series of high-level business programs called Business Japan which provide tangible information on doing business with the Japanese and contribute to an increased awareness of the Oregon-Japan economic relationship. Five programs are planned each year.

    top of page


    Cultural and Community Activities and Programs

    Japanese Community Programs
    Look for programs in Japanese for our Japanese members and their families.

    Young Professionals Network
    Programs focusing on Japan-related topics of interest to younger members of JASO which promote networking opportunities.

    Cultural Program
    High-level and major production or performances providing the people of this region with a better understanding of Japanese culture.

    Index Japan: A Guide to Japan in Oregon
    A database of Japan-related businesses, services and programs in the State of Oregon and S.W. Washington. A small portion of the Index is now available on-line with more info. A hard copy is also available.

    top of page


    Educational Programs

    Japan On the Road: Teaching Elementary Students about Contemporary Japanese Society
    School visitation program designed to provide elementary students in Oregon and S.W. Washington with an introduction to contemporary Japan. Japanese and American volunteers are sent into schools throughout the region with specially designed kits focusing on Japanese School Life. Two volunteer training workshops are held each year with classroom training visits organized throughout the year. School visits are scheduled from October-May, each year. Please check out the Japan on the Road page for more info. on how you can get involved!

    top of page


    Annual Programs

    Annual Meeting & Awards Dinner
    Annual meeting of JASO members for the purpose of electing or confirming new officers. Includes awards presentation ceremony recognizing members and noted guests for their work in promoting understanding between Japan and the U.S. Generally held in the Spring each year.

    Annual Golf Tournament & Awards Dinner
    A JASO tradition since 1960 with members meeting the second Friday in August for a day of golf and an evening of fun at the Awards Dinner. Held on the second Friday of August each year.

    Festival Japan
    A two-day festival held every year at Uwajimaya Plaza in Beaverton. It showcases performances, exhibitions, cultural demonstrations and artisans. Everything from taiko drumming to the martial arts and even cooking demonstrations are presented which highlight the many aspects of Japanese culture.

    JASO Beer Garden
    A summer evening of fun and networking, with Japanese beers, appetizers, performances, and more. Let's celebrate the summer - Japanese style.

    top of page




    Web site hosted by EasyStreet and supported by Ion Global

    Japan-America Society of Oregon
    312 NW Second Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97209
    Phone: 503.552.8811 Fax: 503.552.8815
    email: info@jaso.org

    © 2001 Japan-America Society of Oregon Privacy