In 1925, the Yonabaru Chojin Kai was established as the Yonabaru Doshi Kai, comprising 30-35 member families. Key founding members were Dr. Yokichi Uyehara, Chichin Zukemura, Yozen and Kashin Kaneshiro, Zenji Chinen, and Saburo Chinen.

The club was formed in response to an incident in 1922 at Kahuku Plantation. The death of Mr. Yamauchi, a Yonabaru native without local friends or family, highlighted the necessity for a mutual aid organization. Despite neighbors eventually arranging his funeral, the event underscored the need for a formal Yonabaru club. Logistical challenges delayed the organization’s formation until 1925.

The club’s primary mission was to foster camaraderie and provide mutual support among its members, particularly during funerals and times of bereavement. Demonstrating their commitment to community welfare, the Yonabaru Doshikai donated a significant sum in 1927 to aid Yonabaru Cho, Okinawa, after a devastating fire destroyed 400-500 homes.

Following World War II, in 1946, the Yonabaru Doshi Kai was re-established as the Yonabaru Chojin Kai under the guidance of Shinsuke Nakamine, Chichin Zukemura, Sokukei Gibo, Kashin Kaneshiro, Rev. Tsuha, Mochin Gaza, and Yosei Shinsato.

Between 1947 and 1954, the club contributed essential resources, including school supplies, notebooks, sewing machines, organs, 200-300 books, and financial donations, to support the rebuilding of schools and libraries in Yonabaru.

Today, Yonabaru Chojin Kai has around 150 members, offers a scholarship program for high school graduates, and actively participates in the Annual Okinawan Festival.

Information based on a speech delivered by Shinsuke Nakamine in Japanese and Richard Zukemura in English at the 70th Yonabaru Anniversary service held in April 1995 at Jikoen Temple, honoring the dedication of past and present Yonabaru Chojin Kai officers.