The community came together Sunday afternoon to donate and support Japan after last month’s devastating earthquake and tsunami.
About $2,500 was raised for the relief efforts, said Ron Dale, one of the organizers.
“It was a great day and I was very satisfied,” he said.
Buffi David and Pearl Harris from the Stz’uminus First Nation welcomed everyone with a heartfelt protocol and performed a prayer song.
Music was also performed by the Ladysmith First United Choir.
Mayor Rob Hutchins read the Humming bird story — a story about doing what one can in a time of crisis.
There were speakers, Ed Nicholson, a former teacher and resident of Japan, and Michiko Nakatani, the manager and program co-ordinator of Tamagawa University in Nanaimo.
“The stories were very poignant,” Dale said.
Music was performed by Ladysmith Secondary School student Jeannine Fong.
Darin Phillips, minister of Oceanview Community Church and Rev. Min-Goo Kang, from Ladysmith First United Church, both did prayers of dedication.
Children and adults were invited to make paper cranes, as well.
Coffee, tea and snacks were provided by donation.
“I left with a smile on my face,” Dale said. “We accomplished a lot in a short time.”
The Japanese Relief Fundraiser was at Ladysmith Secondary School, Sunday, April 3 from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
Those wishing to donate can do so at the Frank Jameson Community Centre and the Ladysmith Credit Union.