Winds of Change

Events

Feb 16

Written By The ACCJ Charity Ball Committee

First in-person Charity Ball since 2019 brings the ACCJ together

After two years in virtual space, one of the largest annual events held by the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) returned to its traditional in-person format on December 3, when chamber members and guests gathered at the Hilton Tokyo in Shinjuku for Chicago: An Evening in the Windy City.

The first live Charity Ball since 2019 kept some virtual aspects of the pandemic galas to give the whole chamber community—across the Tokyo, Chubu, and Kansai chapters—the opportunity to participate.

The goal was to raise funds for charity while also bringing one of the ACCJ’s most important social events back to life, and the evening was a roaring success thanks to a great venue; spectacular entertainment, inspired food, wine, and spirits; and a special guest: Chicago’s own Rahm Emanuel, US ambassador to Japan.

The Charity Ball Committee, with the help of the amazing ACCJ staff, worked together to make this event happen. But it would not have been possible without the support of our generous sponsors, all those who attended, and the many people who participated online in our raffle and auction.

With everyone’s support, we raised ¥4.5 million for charities, making a big difference in our ability to help those in need.

The Charity Ball Committee cannot thank our sponsors and the ACCJ community enough for making the event a success. We are grateful to each and every person involved, and extend a huge thank you to all!