100 Organizations Join! Sports Volunteer Network (SVN) Becomes a Leading Collaborative Platform in Japan

The Sports Volunteer Network (SVN), for which The Nippon Foundation Volunteer Center (Minato-ku, Tokyo; Chairman Yasushi Yamawaki) serves as the secretariat, has reached a milestone of 100 member organizations. SVN is a network organization of sports volunteer promotion groups nationwide. Diverse entities, including local governments, educational institutions, professional sports teams, and non-profit organizations, participate to share information and collaborate, aiming for the popularization and development of sports volunteering and the cultivation of a sports volunteer culture in Japan.

Background of Establishment
Following the 2007 Tokyo Marathon, large-scale citizen-participation marathons spread across Japan, with many volunteers supporting operations. Social interest rose further after the decision to host the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics, expanding the concept of 'supporting sports.' However, the COVID-19 pandemic caused many events to be canceled, leading to fewer opportunities and a shortage of volunteers. In response, The Nippon Foundation Volunteer Center established SVN in 2023 to promote collaboration and expand the volunteer base. As of April 2026, it reached 100 members.

Current Members (from 26 Prefectures)
- Municipalities/Local Governments: 10
- Educational Institutions: 14
- Professional Sports Teams: 7
- Numerous other Non-profit Organizations

Key Activities
1. Networking: Hosting network meetings for information exchange and collaboration among members.
2. Training Programs: Co-hosting volunteer training sessions with The Nippon Foundation Volunteer Center, ranging from beginner courses to leadership training.
3. Recruitment Information: Consolidating and disseminating volunteer recruitment information via the 'Bokatsu!' platform and its specialized 'Sports Volunteer Portal.'

SVN continues to accept new member organizations that promote sports volunteering or similar activities to make volunteering a more accessible entry point for social participation.