Report: 'Opening Up Places of Belonging in Gifu' — Rethinking Third Places Between Medicine, Welfare, and Education

On March 19, 2026, a results report meeting titled 'Opening Up Places of Belonging in Gifu' was held in a hybrid format. Hosted by the general incorporated association Sustainable Support, the event attracted about 20 attendees in person and 50 online, highlighting the high level of interest in creating such spaces. This article reports on the practices of three organizations that have been 'opening up' places of belonging in Gifu City through different approaches, as well as the cross-talk session where they discussed real operational challenges and future prospects.

Why a place of belonging now? At the beginning of the event, Goto from Sustainable Support explained the purpose of the meeting. The organization started with employment support for young people facing difficulties or those in the 'gray zone' of developmental disabilities. However, they realized that employment frameworks alone were insufficient, leading them to operate 'third places' for youth.

They emphasized that the diversity and operational difficulties of these spaces are significant. This event was planned not just to share success stories, but to invite guests from medical, welfare, and educational fields to discuss what kind of spaces are needed for the future of Gifu.

Creating a 'Safe Base' for Youth (Gifu Career Step Center): Watanabe from Sustainable Support reported on the 2025 results of 'Gifu Career Step Center' (Gifu Carry), a downtown third place for youth. It is a free space for those aged 15-35, equipped with PCs, books, games, and Wi-Fi. It serves as a multi-functional safety net for those who cannot easily ask for help. This year, they started providing light meals like rice balls and miso soup, which has facilitated natural communication. As of March 6, 2026, they had 59 registered users and 495 total visits.

Supporting Children's Growth (Hitonone): Hanako Shinoda, representative of Hitonone, reported on their after-school support. They focus on the 'poverty, inequality, and loneliness' faced by teenagers. By organizing 'small projects' like music units or forest camps, they have seen remarkable growth in children, including those who were previously truant.

Connecting through Food (Come Come Swallow): Dr. Taketo Chikaishi, a dentist and board member of Chikaishi Hospital, discussed 'Come Come Swallow,' a community space that connects medicine and the region through food. They provide dysphagia-friendly meals, allowing people with and without disabilities to enjoy dining together, thus serving as a foundation for relationships outside of medical care.

Cross-talk: The panelists agreed that while 'support' is important, maintaining a distance and avoiding being overly interventionist is crucial. They also identified securing funding and personnel as the biggest hurdles for sustainability. They concluded that organic connections and 'face-to-face relationships' are the true safety net for the future society.