The Concord Ambassadors, the non-profit organization sponsoring Concord’s Sister City Program, will hold a “1,000 Cranes for Japan” candlelight vigil and fundraiser on Thursday, March 31, at 7 p.m. in Todos Santos Plaza in downtown Concord.

Concord’s Sister City, Kitakami, was spared heavy damage but is suffering shortages and other impacts after the recent earthquake and tsunami, as are many cities in Northern Japan. The Ambassadors will be accepting donations to the Northern Japan Earthquake Relief Fund at the event.

An ancient Japanese legend promises that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes will be granted a wish, such as long life or recovery from illness or injury. Organizers are asking people who attend the vigil to bring an origami crane along with their donation, or make a crane at the event.

The Ambassadors’ wish is for the full recovery of Japan and the organization plans to collect 10,000 cranes in 30 days, starting with the March 31 event. Collection boxes will be provided during the month of April at businesses around Todos Santos Plaza. The cranes will become part of an art piece that will commemorate Concord’s support for its sister city.

Donations can be made anytime to the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California – Northern Japan Earthquake Relief Fund (1840 Sutter St., San Francisco, CA 94115 via Union Bank), the Japan Society of Northern California, the Japanese Consulate in San Francisco, the Salvation Army, Red Cross or any of the other international organizations mobilizing to assist Japan. The Consulate website also includes the latest developments and contacts for those seeking more information.

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