Akio Toyoda's Journey to Revive Compassionate Spirit, Recounted by a Comrade in Arms
The Japanese offender rehabilitation system is commemorating its 75th anniversary, having grown from humble charitable programs for ex-prisoners in the Meiji era to a formalised and internationally acclaimed model of public-private collaboration. This unique system, which includes the Hogoshi Volunteer Probation Officer (VPO) program, is integral to Japan's community-based correctional system and has received long-term support from the Toyota Group, particularly in Aichi Prefecture.
The Hogoshi program, involving civilian volunteers who assist in the rehabilitation and supervision of offenders, is facing challenges such as limited public awareness and an aging volunteer base. However, efforts are being made to ensure its sustainability and attract younger volunteers.
One key consideration is digitalization and modernization. Incorporating digital tools and modern communication methods could enhance the program's appeal to younger generations and improve its efficiency. Public awareness campaigns, partnering with educational institutions, and utilising social media and online platforms are other strategies being explored to promote the program and engage with potential volunteers.
Attracting younger volunteers is crucial for the program's continued success. Developing youth-focused initiatives, offering incentives, and recognising volunteers' contributions are potential strategies to motivate younger individuals to participate.
The Hogoshi program has been instrumental in helping offenders become self-reliant and regain their good standing in society. For individuals trying to get back on their feet after criminal behaviour or wrongdoing, hogoshi volunteers act as a supportive family, committed to their long-term reintegration into society. This community-based approach has contributed to creating a safe, peaceful society in which no one is left behind.
The Toyota Group's historical involvement in offender rehabilitation was highlighted at a national convention commemorating 75 years of the hogoshi system, with Toyota Vice Chairman Shigeru Hayakawa invited to speak. His speech, entitled "Akio Toyoda's challenge: The fight to restore the essence of Toyota," emphasised the importance of people engaging with each other, a philosophy that resonates with the altruism and love for fellow human beings that drive hogoshi volunteers.
As the world focuses on sustainable development, the event offered many important insights for the future of the rehabilitation system. By addressing the areas of sustainability and attracting younger volunteers, the Hogoshi program can continue to make a significant contribution to Japan's correctional system.
The Hogoshi program, with its focus on rehabilitating offenders and promoting community-based correction, is exploring modernization and digitalization to attract a younger volunteer base, making use of social media, online platforms, and partnerships with educational institutions. In aligning with Toyota Group's philosophy of human engagement and Akio Toyoda's challenge, the program aims to preserve its essence while ensuring its sustainability and significant contribution to Japan's correctional system, nurturing a lifestyle that values justice, home-and-garden (community), and personal growth for all involved.
