Our amazing Executive Board
Gerald Rooney President/CEO
Debra Almeida, Secretary/Program Coordinator
Brian Bowcock, Treasurer
Ayako Rooney, Cultural Advisor
Kristine Audette, Director
Terry Berard, Director
Monica Donnelly, Director
Monica Martin, Director
Charlie Murphy, Director
Barbara Owen, Director
Jason Sardinha, Director
Jill Simmons, Director
Robert Whitfield, Director
The Whitfield-Manjiro Friendship Society
This sister city relationship between Fairhaven/New Bedford and Tosashimizu, Japan was established in 1987, rooted in the 1841 story of John Manjiro, the first Japanese person to live in the United States. He was rescued by Captain Whitfield, on the whaling ship The John Howland. Manjiro Nakahama was just 14 years old when that adventure began. He returned to Japan many years later, and was ultimately instrumental in the opening of Japan, which had previously been a closed country.
Our sister city relationship has grown with each passing year with many of us calling many people in Tosashimizu our friends!
Volunteer with The Whitfield Manjiro Friendship Society
Join our team of volunteers and make a difference in this amazing cross-cultural relationship. Whether you can give a few hours a week or a few hours a month, we are always looking for volunteers to help with the Friendship House, help out at our festivals and events, host Japanese students and teachers, and sometimes just be there to participate in the experiences offered!
Attend Our Events
We host a variety of events throughout the year, including the Manjiro Festival, The Cherry Blossum Festival, cultural classes such as cooking, language, and hope to offer many more once our cultural center is complete! Donate here to help!
Partner with The Whitfield Manjiro Friendship Society
We're always looking for new partners to collaborate with on projects and events. If your organization shares our values and mission, let's work together to make a positive impact.
Spread the Word
Help us raise awareness of our mission and programs by sharing our website, social media pages, and events with your friends, family, and colleagues.