Abstract
In light of the declining birthrate and aging population, the municipalities in Kochi Prefecture have experienced a decrease in regional revitalization in recent years. The same trend has been observed in Tosa City, where our university is located. In response to the situation in Tosa City, the Department of Occupational Therapy at Kochi Rehabilitation Professional University established the Job Support Center, aiming to foster an inclusive community. The Job Support Center embodies
the concept of a community-inclusive society as envisioned by occupational therapists, providing a space where people of
all generations and abilities-from children to university students, the elderly, and those with disabilities-can participate in the community without difficulty, with a central focus on supporting people through jobs they can engage in. The Job Support Center facilitates games for children, the sale of vegetables grown by the elderly, the utilization of eco-bags made
by facility residents, the sale of artistic works, and light refreshments.The center’s visitor count exceeded 100 after one year of practice in the 2024 fiscal year, confirming its contribution to regional revitalization. The Job Support Center facilitated social participation for diverse groups, including university students, the elderly, and facility residents, by supporting a proactive lifestyle. Moving forward, the center aims to continue providing opportunities for social participation through job-related activities.
