The Okinawa Association of America (OAA) in Gardena is happy to announce a new monthly program for seniors (age 65 and over) set to begin in March. Generously supported by Keiro’s Grants Program, the OAA’s first Seniors “Surii-Jurii” Gatherings will take place on March 16th (English) and 30th (Japanese), 12 - 2 p.m. From April, the get-togethers will be scheduled for every third (English) and fourth (Japanese) Saturday of the month.

Each month, participants will engage in social activities and learn about health or Okinawan culture through short presentations. Lunch will be provided for those who register in advance.

Social isolation and loneliness are commonly experienced by older adults including retirees, widowed spouses, empty nesters, and immigrants. The goal of these bilingual luncheons is to provide a safe and consistent gathering place, opportunities to socialize with friends and meet new people, ways to keep the mind active and engaged through presentations and social activities, and a sense of community.

“Surii-jurii,” which means “gathering” in the native Okinawan language, embodies this goal as well as the cultural elements that will be brought to each function. The organizers were inspired by the lifestyles of elders in the Okinawa islands who are known for their healthy diet and eating habits (nuchigusui, “food as medicine”), daily physical and mental activity, socializing (yuntaku, “chitchat”), the spirit of mutual aid and cooperation in the community (yuimaaruu or yiimaaruu), and a sense of purpose (ichigee, “ikigai” in Japanese).

Registration is required one week prior to each gathering due to limited space and in order to order lunch boxes (priority will be given to OAA members). Monthly attendance is encouraged in order to build fellowship, but not required. Even though there are two gatherings per month, participants are encouraged to attend only one to ensure that enough seats are available for fellow attendees.

This monthly activity will take place at the OAA Center’s Yamauchi Building, 16500 South Western Avenue, Gardena 90247. Limited on-site parking is available, but drop-off/pick-up by a family member or caregiver is encouraged. The venue will be open up to one hour prior to and one hour after the event’s scheduled time.

For more information or to register, please contact the OAA office (weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.): oaamensore@gmail.com, (310) 532-1929.

The Okinawa Association of America, Inc. (OAA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving and promoting Okinawan culture in the greater Los Angeles area. Formed by Okinawan immigrants (issei) over a century ago, the OAA has grown into a multi-generational organization that hosts numerous events throughout the year including cultural lectures, performances, social gatherings, and senior-focused activities. 2019 marks the organization’s 110th anniversary. For updates about special anniversary events including a September 1 concert by the renowned Okinawan band, Begin ("ギン), please visit oaamensore.org or facebook.com/oaamensore.