Welcome to Kawabe Memorial House, a thriving senior community established in 1969 by the descendants of Harry S. Kawabe. With a mission to provide secure and affordable housing for first-generation immigrant seniors, this ten-story building houses 174 residents, averaging 76 years of age. Located east of Seattle’s International District, the apartments offer stunning views of downtown, Elliott Bay, and the Cascades and Olympic Mountains. Kawabe Memorial House operates as a private non-profit organization, governed by a corporate Board of Directors.

Beyond independent living, the community provides a range of culturally sensitive services, including translation assistance in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, and group recreational outings. Residents can partake in Tai Chi classes, bingo, and Shigin (Japanese singing). Moreover, the Asian menu inspired lunch program, which serves an average of 65 people daily, welcomes both residents and community members aged 60 and above, with menus translated into multiple languages. Kawabe Memorial House exemplifies the power of community involvement, as residents actively contribute to special projects. They raised $10,000 through bake sales and rummage sales for a garden restoration initiative. Additionally, an Arts grant facilitated the creation of sixteen postcards designed by an artist, showcasing residents’ life stories and translated captions in various languages. As part of the same project, residents recorded their narratives in their native languages, creating a captivating listening station within the premises. At Kawabe Memorial House, seniors find not only a safe and affordable place to live but also a close-knit community that cherishes their diverse backgrounds and fosters a sense of purpose and belonging.