About
Ikoi No Kai was founded on February 14, 1979 by a group of Issei to provide nutritious meals to older members of our community. The name was selected because of its meaning: “a place of rest.”
Funding was initially supported by Multnomah County but in 2009 the County decided to fund other projects so other funding resources needed to be found. A one time grant from the Spirit Mountain Community Fund in 2011 helped tide the organization over until other donations and funding could be secured. Loen Dozono became the beloved director in 2010. She made sure that Ikoi No Kai was able to continue its welcoming tradition. In 2020 Jeannine Shinoda took over the position and was later assisted by Chika Saeki. Ms. Shinoda was able to lift the profile of this unique lunch program by obtaining grants and promoting the program through social media.
Ikoi no Kai also provides an opportunity for people to get together to sing, play cards, and move with lessons in tai chi and chair hula. Blood pressure checks are offered. All age groups are invited to enjoy a meal and community.
The meals are prepared from scratch often with donations like fresh salmon or cucumbers from the garden.
The lunch program is available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday in the basement of Epworth United Methodist Church, 1333 SE 28th Ave
Ikoi No Kai Staff
Jeannine Shinoda, Director
Chika Saeki, Assistant Directory
Naomi Molstrom, Monday Chef
Kyoko Adcock, Tuesday Chef
Justin Sato/Andrea Hoyt Thursday Friday Chefs
Ikoi No Kai House Band
Reiko Takeshige became involved in Ikoi No Kai Singalong in 2014-2015. Loen Dozono wanted to start a singing program. Reiko had been part of the Tomodachi-kai Chorus Group of JASO.
Half American and half Japanese songs were printed at put into binders which are still used today.
Richard March has worked with volunteer, Ame Hayashi to create videos that profile Japanese singers. View and subscribe to the Ikoi No Kai Youtube.
Bento Project
Volunteers prepare and deliver traditional bento lunches to homebound Japanese seniors in the Portland Metro area once per month. If you know of a member of our community who would enjoy a Japanese inspired meal, please fill out this application form.
Support Us
Please help us continuing this important program by making contributions to Ikoi no Kai. Donations can be made by check, payable to Ikoi no Kai and mailed to Ikoi no Kai, 1333 SE 28th, Portland, OR 97214. Along with your donation, please include your contact information so an acknowledgement can be sent to you. Donations can also be made “in memory of” or “in honor of” named individuals.
Thank you for your support!