Kobe Community Forum
神戸コミュニティフォーラム
共催：神戸市・公益財団法人神戸国際協力交流センター
Hosted by Kobe City and the Kobe International Center for Cooperation and Communication (KIC)
Theme of 2016 Forum:
"How can we make Kobe the BEST city (=most liveable city) in Japan? A vision from Kobe Residents for Kobe Residents"
What makes a city a great place to live?
There are many factors that contribute to a city's livability; public and social spaces, recreation areas, delivery of services to residents and businesses by the local government, health care, housing, schools, and protection of the environment are just some examples.
We want to hear from community members of all backgrounds about how livable Kobe City is for them.
What is special and what do you love about our Kobe community?
Is there anything you think our community is missing or can improve?
What can the city do, and what can residents themselves do, to help make Kobe a livable, accessible and joyful place to live for everyone?
All ideas are welcome.
Forum Program
10:10~10:15
Welcome Remarks From the Honorable Mayor Hisamoto
10:15~10:40
Short Presentations From Kobe Residents
10:50~11:20
Mini Information Exchange
11:30~12:10
Group Discussion and Poster Session
12:10~12:30
Summary, Participant Comments, Mayor’s Comments
12:30~13:00
Lunch and Networking Party (*Guests may stay until 14:00)
About The Mini Information Exchanges
1) Health and Medical Services in Kobe City
Do you have questions about the Japanese health care system? Are you looking for Kobe-specific information? Ask your questions and get important information in English about medical services in Kobe City. This session will be facilitated by Dr. Masatoki Adachi of the Adachi Clinic (a bilingual and US Embassy designated exam clinic in Kobe City).
2) Everyday Safety and Well-being
Would you like to learn about simple, every-day steps you can take to promote community safety and awareness? Talk with city officials who working hard behind the scenes to keep Kobe City healthy and safe. We all have an important role to play in community well-being and resilience! Learn practical tips about what you can do in case of an emergency. Share knowledge, ask questions, and enhance your confidence in knowing you are prepared and can practice good every-day safety procedures. This session will be facilitated by Dr. Honjo, Managing Director of the Kobe Institute Of Urban Research and Ms. Uotsu, Manager of the Project and Training Division of the Kobe International Center For Cooperation and Communication. Representatives from City Hall will also support this session.
3) Resources for Parents and Children
The goal of this session is to strengthen families' relationship to the community through networking, information-sharing, and group activities. We are compiling a list of kids and family-friendly locations in Kobe City. After that, we would like to invite parents to chat with each other, ask questions, and share useful resources with each other. This session will be facilitated by John Vigil. Mr. Nakanishi (of the Kobe City Chuo Ward Child Welfare Unit) and Dr. Yasunari (Medical Doctor, graduate of Kobe University Medical School and mother of two) will also be on-hand to support the discussion.
4) Community and Social Groups of Kobe
Get involved in your community! Did you know there are over 100 community organizations registered with the KICC, and many more throughout Kobe City? We invited a few representatives of local volunteer, social, and special-interest groups to introduce their activities and upcoming events. Participants are also welcome to share the groups they participate in. Chat with like-minded people in a casual environment and see what opportunities might be waiting for you. This group will be facilitated by several community members, including Phillip Hughes, and representatives of the KICC.
5) The Best Sports, Recreation and Cultural Resources in Kobe
Are you looking for interesting places to go and fun things to do in Kobe? This session is designed to be part information gathering and information sharing! Participants should be prepared to bring their recommendations and questions. Help us discover the "hidden gems" and "the best of~" in Kobe City! This group will be co-facilitated by Louise Dendy, PR Specialist for Kobe City, and Sho Abbott.