East San Gabriel Valley Japanese Community Center

The East San Gabriel Valley Japanese Community Center (ESGVJCC) is a not for profit organization dedicated to foster and preserve the cultural heritage unique to Japanese American ancestry; and to serve the community through social services, artistic, recreational and educational programs. Accordingly, the ESGVJCC Board of Directors, in January 2012 implemented a 10 year strategic plan anticipating and adjusting for the challenges and opportunities of the emerging horizon.

Established in 1936 and incorporated in 1951, we serve over 500 seniors and roughly 1,200 youth weekly who participate in the following classes and programs.
Cultural Classes: bonsai (pine tree trimming), ikebana (flower arranging), kime komi ningyo (doll making class), taiko (Japanese drumming), odori (classical dancing), koto (Japanese harp)
Martial Arts Courses: aikido, judo, karate, kendo (Japanese fencing), shinkendo (Japanese swordsmanship), taichi
Recreational Classes: ballroom dancing, yoga, fitness classes
Youth Programs: infant care center, preschool, afterschool program, Saturday Japanese preschool, basketball program, K-12 Japanese language school, youth leadership organization, Camp Chibikko youth cultural camp, Student Exchange Program
Young Adult Program: Camp Chibikko camp counselors, Nisei Week Ambassador Program
Senior Programs: senior adult day program, senior computer literacy courses and workshops, senior wellness program, Keepers of the Flame Oral History Project