For over thirty years the American Women’s Welfare Association (AWWA) has forged a vital link between American military families and their Okinawan neighbors. Founded by U.S. Forces wives’ clubs during Okinawa’s reversion from a U.S. territory to a Japanese prefecture, AWWA has been quietly fostering a relationship with the Okinawan community through charitable contributions, friendship, and community involvement.

AWWA offers a way for its member organizations to coordinate and consolidate their resources, providing the maximum positive impact on our community. On the fourth Wednesday of each month, representatives of AWWA’s member clubs meet to evaluate requests for donations and to pledge funds to local Japanese welfare facilities and American organizations.

In the last ten years alone, AWWA has contributed nearly $3,500,000 to over 100 Japanese and American organizations combined. These funds have been used to purchase everything from handicapped- accessible vehicles, to agricultural equipment, to baby blankets, to even an ultrasound machine. AWWA helps make a difference in the lives of the elderly, the physically and mentally challenged, and the children of Okinawa.

AWWA member organizations raise funds by running different gift shops, thrift shops, and by hosting a myriad of other events, including golf tournaments and art auctions. If you are interested in contributing to AWWA, simply visit one or more of the gift or thrift shops, purchase an item, and become a patron of worthy American or Japanese organizations in need. Better yet, volunteer at your favorite gift or thrift shop and help generate the charitable funds that flow to worthy organizations!