Reader M.S. is looking for volunteer opportunities in Tokyo that don't require fluent Japanese ability, as many — if not most — do. In particular, she'd like to work with animals.
Though volunteering opportunities in Japan were covered extensively after the March 11, 2011, disasters, there are a few options for animal lovers in Japan.
Animal Refuge Kansai (ARK) has branches in Tokyo and Osaka, although only their Osaka branch has a shelter. Opportunities in Tokyo include being a foster family for pets until they find permanent homes and sporadic, event-specific jobs.