Cathy Iwai

Photo from Cathy Iwai

Japanese Women’s Society Foundation celebrated 60 years in July, and it continues to raise awareness about and assist Hawaii’s elderly.

Board member Cathy Iwai has been with the organization for the past five years. Current president is City Councilwoman Ann Kobayashi.

According to Iwai, Japanese Women’s Society Foundation’s primary purpose is to support community efforts in the field of gerontology, as well as foster appreciation of Japanese cultural traditions.

The organization hosts programs that focus on the elderly, funds scholarships for students in the fields of social work, nursing and other health-related fields specializing in geriatrics, and awards grants to nonprofit organizations supporting Japanese culture.

To continue its work to promote Japanese traditions and foster relationships within the community, the foundation invites the public to its first social event,”Wine & Baubles,” Oct. 23 from 5 to 7 p.m.

The event is intended to bring together people from various businesses and communities to learn more about Japanese Women’s Society Foundation.

“This event is just letting people know about our organization and what we’re about,” says Iwai, who co-chairs it. “People can come do some shopping in October for Christmas.”

Guests will have the opportunity to sample special wines, enjoy ono pupus and start their holiday shopping while networking and meeting new people.

Mini Christmas trees created by various business leaders will be on display and offered as door prizes.

Advanced sommelier and certified wine specialist Charles Fredy will conduct an educational wine tasting featuring 40 fine wines from Chambers & Chambers Wine Merchants, which is now celebrating 41 years in business.

Tickets cost $50 per person and must be purchased by Oct. 20. For more information, tickets and location, visit JWSF.org or email Iwai at cathy.iwai@hawaiiantel.net, or Patty Matsuo at pattymatsuo@gmail.com.