Our Mission
The Japan Exchange & Teaching Program Alumni Association of Northern California (JETAANC) serves as a network and resource for JET Program alumni in Northern California and Nevada, and provides assistance to the JET Program and other activities that strengthen U.S.–Japan relations.
JETAANC is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. With over 1,700 current members, JETAANC is one of the largest and most active JET alumni chapters in the world.
Our Purpose
JETAANC was founded to assist and support JET Program participants who return to life in Northern California or Nevada. Sponsored by the Japanese government, JET alumni lived and worked in communities across Japan, supporting local English education and internationalization efforts. Through our contacts and partners, JETAANC serves as an extended network for JET alumni who wish to keep their connections with Japan and the JET Program alive. JETAANC also provides career, education, and re-entry guidance for its members. From job search advice and educational opportunities to social and networking events, JETAANC can help provide alumni with the assistance they are looking for.
Activities range from picnics, cultural clubs and activities, and karaoke nights to career development events and training for new outbound JETs. We are also active in the many local Japan-related cultural, business, and artistic events in our area. We serve as a resource to the community in educational, cultural and international exchange activities.
JETAANC works closely with the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco to provide assistance with year-round JET Program recruitment and promotion, annual interviews of potential participants, and training of new participants prior to departure, among many other Consulate initiatives. We provide a voice for JET alumni to the Japanese government and represent alumni interests at annual conferences in the U.S. and around the world.
Our History
1990
Alumni gather to share their common Japan experience and to begin the career and social networking process at home.
1991
A resume bank for alumni is created and alumni manage calls from employers to alumni.
1993
The first edition of the Career Handbook is published to coincide with the first Career & Networking Forum. Alumni gather for the first time with professional recruiters and listen to numerous panel discussions on everything from resume writing to accepting job offers.
1994
JETAANC officially becomes a California Public Benefit Corporation – 501(c)(3) Non-profit organization.
1995
JETAANC is instrumental in launching the first National JETAA Conference in New York. JETAANC raises funds for the Kobe Earthquake Relief Effort.
1996
JETAANC hosts the annual JETAA Conference.
JETAANC continues to serve as an important resource to alumni and the community at large. Established alumni activities include language and cultural workshops, professional development and networking events, holiday parties, hanami viewing and summer alumni and friends picnics, and support for the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco’s JET Program recruitment, admissions, and training, including the Alumni-Led Orientation for new JETs. Networking, educational, and social opportunities are provided throughout the year throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, Monterey Bay, and beyond.
1996~Present
JETAANC continues to serve the community through volunteer service projects and assists with Japan-related events such as the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival and programs sponsored by the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco. We also continue to strive to “give back” to Japan, including organizing fundraisers to benefit recovery efforts relating to the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in March 2011 and the Kumamoto earthquake in April 2016.