gunmajet.net

I stopped being a boy scout in 6th grade, but when I was asked to join the boy scouts, I felt like it was a great opportunity to expand my international influence. I've volunteered a couple of my Sundays (8-10--not many) to the Japanese boy scouts for the past two years. I'll be returning home, but it would be great if someone would join them and take my place. More than one person is welcome, too. There's no limit. Females and males have joined them in the past, and there are boy and girl scouts.

Details:
1. Abe-san, who speaks great English, will pick you up if you're in Takasaki or near Tamamura.
2. The scouts are elementary, J.H.S., and one high school scout. Mixed genders.
3. The leaders and the scouts are very friendly and kind country people. Their English is pretty limited, so it's a great chance to practice and use your Japanese.
4. In 90% of the cases, I've only tagged along. I've gone hiking in Mt. Akagi, camping in Tamamura, went to Takasaki shrine and mediated with monks, and to Christmas parties. Only once did I go to their community center to play English games for 30 minutes. It's been surprisingly relaxing and nice.
5. They pay for all accommodations and everything you do/eat.
6. Abe asks if you can join, if you're busy, you say you can't go and sorry--not much pressure. I've declined over 5 to 6 times.

If you're interested, you can contact Abe-san: 027-328-3417.
If you'd like more details from me (although Abe-san can tell you anything), you can e-mail me at mr.ciminoATgmail.com.

Hope you join!
Chris

P.S. They're going on an overnight camping trip from July 17th to the 18th. They're going to hike Mt. Akagi, stay the night (paid by them), and then go kayaking the next day. Maybe, this can be your first experience.