“Closing my eyes and listening to these rhythmic, haunting sounds gave me goosebumps. It hit me for the first time that I was thousands of miles and worlds away from everything I knew. I couldn’t wait to start my journey.”

United Planet Japan Country Manager Chie Goto has been traveling around the Tohoku region, the area most affected by the tsunami and earthquake. She’s been sending back reports that are both heart-breaking and inspiring.

School is almost out for the summer here in Boston, and for 11 lucky Boston Public School (BPS) high school students, 3 BPS teachers, and one United Planet Group Coordinator, this means much more than sleeping in and building sand castles at the beach. Thanks to a grant from the U.S. State Department Bureau of Cultural and Educational Affairs, these 15 excited travelers will have the opportunity to explore the unique country of Mongolia for three weeks this coming July!

United Planet is very excited to announce that Chie Goto will serve as the Country Manager in Japan for a new voluntary international exchange program between Japan, the United States, and other countries, entitled United Planet J-Initiative, J-Center Volunteer Leaders2(pronounced Volunteer Leaders squared). Starting this week, Ms. Goto will oversee this program that expects to enroll over 650 American and Japanese volunteers within four years.

With the Alumni Council getting started with their ideas and visions, we have one more person for you to get acquainted with! The wonderful and eager Abbie has taken on the challenge of being the first Secretary for the United Planet Alumni Council.