Funding
The Japanese Sister City Commission has had many different types of funding through the years. Money has come from public grants, Santi-Cali-Gon activities, and donations to the Friends of JSCC. We are always looking for fund-raising activities and sponsors.
Each year the Cherry Blossom Festival earns money to help support the Student Exchanges but it is primarily designed to be an educational tool for the community. In the fall the Johnson County Community College hosts a Japanese Festival in which the JSCC sell donated items in the Bazaar to help support the student exchange as well.
Volunteers house the Japanese students at no cost to the JSCC and it is these warm homes and families that help to make this exchange program a great success. Likewise, the American students stay in the homes of families in Japan. The home-stay is a very valuable learning experience and important aspect of the program, not just a monitory issue. Hosts also take care of the Adult Exchanges in the same manner every five years.
Needs for the Sister Schools are funded through the parents, teachers and school budgets as well as through the city commission. Donations to the Sister Schools would be given to the Friends of the JSCC.
Community volunteer groups help to maintain the Japanese Garden through the JSCC and the City's Public Works and Parks & Recreation Departments work hand-in-hand with the JSCC to maintain the park.
Independence Area businesses and citizens can assist the Sister City programs with activities, supplies and donations for the Cherry Blossom Festival, Admission tickets, activities and transportation for the Exchange Program each summer, and gift items to give to the Japanese visitors. Educational items and supplies are always accepted for the Sister School.