About Us
The mission of Sakura Kai is to provide its seniors, including Japanese-speaking seniors, with lifelong learning opportunities and to sustain and share with the public Japanese-American culture and traditions for the present and future generations. We strive to enhance personal health and nutrition, consumer awareness, intellectual growth, technology skills, personal development, and provide opportunities to socialize in a secure environment.
Board of Directors
2022-2023
Marjorie Fujioka
Mark Fujiwara
Takako Hayakawa
Joyce Kawahata
Larry Oishi
Bill Sato
Amy Shinsako
Ben Takeshita
Sam Uchihara
Angela Urata
Mayumi Wani
Sunnie Youk
Kathie Yoshii
Staff
Sakura Kai Coordinator: Yasuyo Floyd
Sakura Kai was formed in 1973 under Contra Costa JACL leadership with Ben Takeshita, Natsuko Irei, and Meriko Maeda. Masako Yoshida was selected to lead the program.
First held at American Savings Bank on San Pablo Avenue, the name Sakura Kai was chosen. Two other moves occurred before moving to the Alvarado adult school campus.
Developing the program was June Sakaguchi who became coordinator with Masako Yoshida acting as her Japanese language assistant.
William Waki gave longevity to Sakura Kai as coordinator for 25 years. Other coordinators have been: Michael Endo, Susie Sasahara, Janice Terakawa, Yoko Fitzpatrick, Setsuko Doi, Toshi Kuwabara, Yasuyo Floyd
