Amidst the declining birthrate and aging population, the weakening of community ties, and disparities in social participation among people with and without disabilities, Japanese society is facing various invisible divides. In particular, participation in sports and cultural activities is often limited due to factors such as physical condition, access to transportation, and place of residence. As a result, there are many whose desire to participate is hampered by their inability to take that first step.

In light of these challenges, the Online Boccia Promotion Association is harnessing technology to provide a new sports experience that anyone can take part in from anywhere. This association has created opportunities for interaction among people, regardless of disability status or geographical constraints, through online Boccia. This form of the parasport Boccia can be enjoyed using remote control technology and an internet connection.

The inclusive society envisioned through online Boccia

Online Boccia makes it possible for people who are homebound or those with severe disabilities to compete from their own home or wherever they happen to be. In addition to enjoying the parasport itself, participants can spend time together and foster communication, thus expanding opportunities for social participation through sports.

As the association continued to offer trial sessions and conduct promotional activities, it faced a challenge. That is, the significance and the allure of online Boccia, as well as the intentions behind it, were not being properly conveyed to those experiencing it for the first time. To further enhance public awareness and encourage participation, developing PR tools for effectively conveying these messages would be essential.

Pro bono support that enables communication to resonate

To address this challenge, NEC's pro bono team supported the development of a public-facing PR brochure. From November 2025 to March 2026, two employees with expertise in communications and design were involved, providing end-to-end support from planning through production.

Through monthly online meetings, the team worked closely with the organization to refine the key messages and structure of the brochure. They also participated in actual online boccia trial sessions as staff members, gaining first-hand insight into participants' experiences and operational practices. This on-the-ground engagement helped them craft expressions that truly convey the essence of the initiative.

Shaping ideas into tangible form

In developing the brochure, the team prioritized clear and accessible language and visual design that would resonate even with those encountering online boccia for the first time, avoiding overly technical terminology. Using tools such as Adobe Illustrator, they supported the entire production process through to final print submission, resulting in a brochure that balances practicality with strong visual appeal.

Feedback from the partner organization highlighted the value of this approach: "By participating in our trial sessions and gaining a deep understanding of our mission, they were able to create a truly wonderful brochure." This communication tool will continue to play an important role in future outreach activities, helping to connect the organization's vision with new participants and supporters.

When communication resonates, possibilities expand

Through this pro bono initiative, a strong foundation for effective communication was established, enabling the Online Boccia Association to sustain and expand its activities. By organizing and presenting the background, purpose, and on-the-ground value of its initiatives in a way that is easy to understand, the project has made it easier for individuals to take the first step toward participation or collaboration.

NEC's Purpose is to help realize a sustainable society in which everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. Online boccia provides opportunities for people, especially those whose participation has been limited by physical conditions or distance, to connect with others through sports. When this value is clearly communicated and widely understood, it helps create an environment where each individual's potential can flourish within society.

This pro bono initiative represents an important step in opening up on-the-ground social initiatives to the wider community and connecting them to future participation and co-creation. NEC will continue to leverage the expertise of each employee to create social value and contribute to a sustainable society where everyone can fully realize their potential.

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In 2010, NEC became the first company in Japan to launch a pro bono program. 
A decade later, in 2020, employee volunteers from the NEC Group established the NEC Pro Bono Club, a pro bono community helping to address challenges faced by local communities, NGOs, NPOs, educational institutions, and others. Today, the NEC Pro Bono Club comprises approximately 900 employees.