Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on April 2011

Often the money raised by Refugees International Japan goes to help people on the other side of the planet, but now that there are thousands of displaced people in Tohoku, they are holding an event to help out a little closer to home. Part of the proceeds from their annual Rhythm and Hope bash will be going to support communities displaced by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. Musicians from Latin band Funky Ritsuko to taiko drummers and DJs will perform to lift spirits and raise some money. Some great prizes will also be raffled off throughout the night. So get your hands in the air and your booty on the dance floor to show your support!

April 28, 6:00-11:00pm. ¥4000. What the Dickens, Roob 6 Bldg 4F, 1-13-3 Ebisu-Nishi, Shibuya. Nearest stn: Ebisu. www.refugeesinternationaljapan.org

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The weather is finally warming up and that means the season for charity runs is upon us. Ease into it with TELL’s 12th Annual Charity Walk & Runathon. If you’re keen, you can take the 10K or 5K runs, but if you’d just like to enjoy the scenery around the Imperial Palace and enjoy a chat, sign up for the 5K walk. Prizes and T-shirts are also up for grabs, but isn’t a lovely spring day in one of Tokyo’s nicest green spaces a reward in and of itself? The money raised will be used to support Tokyo English Life Line’s counseling and support services.

May 7, 9:00am-12pm. ¥3700 per person, discounts for pairs and groups. Chidorigafuchi Park, Hanzomon Gate, Imperial Palace. Nearest station: Hanzomon. Register at www.telljp.com