It is with profound joy that I welcome the 10th anniversary of the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC). My heartfelt gratitude goes out to all the people who have faithfully served and supported the work of the GNRC.

Over the past decade, regional networks of the GNRC have developed around the globe, and GNRC members have actively engaged in various activities for children, focusing especially on eradication of poverty and promotion of ethics education. Thanks to the dedicated network members as well as our partners and supporters, the GNRC has gradually gained worldwide recognition among social and peace workers and people of faith, from the grassroots to the global levels.

Shozo Fujita
Secretary General, Arigatou Foundation

The following is a passage from the Prospectus of the GNRC in 2000.

The Arigatou Foundation, founded by Myochikai, hereby advocates the establishment of the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC) to provide a venue for individuals or organizations working for the good of children to unite and cooperate with one another with the aim of realizing a world where children can grow up in health and freedom. This advocacy has its origin in the view that the most valuable asset we can create and pass on to future generations is an environment in which all children can grow up safely, filled with confidence, love and joy.

In the hope of creating a better environment for children, the members of Myochikai practice a Buddhist teaching of refraining from waste and luxury in daily life and making humble contributions to the work of the GNRC. Most of them are just plain, ordinary folks. Even in economically tough times like we all face today, they continue to be grateful to be given the opportunity to cultivate a heart for others and serve to realize our goal.

In fact, this year Myochikai is celebrating its 60th anniversary, and the Arigatou Foundation its 20th anniversary. Some might say that what has been done by the Foundation over the past two decades has made a huge difference in the lives of many children. Looking around the world today, however, I feel that we still have a long way to go. We still have so much to do.

All of us at the Arigatou Foundation are deeply appreciative of the tireless work of GNRC members to maximize the benefit to children of the limited resources we are able to provide. Our finances are of course not unlimited, and we have been forced to narrow down our projects and reduce expenses. I want each and every GNRC member to know that it is your devotion, commitment, enthusiasm and compassion which encourages Myochikai members to do all they can.

As I revisit the founding spirit of the Foundation in this happy triple-anniversary year, I renew my resolve to build a more stable financial foundation and strengthen our ties with partners and supporters so that we can continue to support the work of the GNRC. It is a firm conviction of Myochikai members that advancing the GNRC will multiply the joy and happiness of children.

With that, please let me request your further cooperation and support for the great work of the GNRC.