TOGETHER-Strengthening Our Community Services!

OVERVIEW OF OUR FOCUS

Domestic Violence

"If there is a Will, there is a Way"

The family unit and solid relationships are an integral component to the overall health of our community. Violence and abuse break the fabric of these bonds and often destroy lives. It is apparent that we must all look for ways to build strong relationships between family members in an effort not only to preserve the family unit, but to protect, facilitate and support the growth of healthy children. An opportunity exists for Faith-Based Organizations, Government Agencies, Service Providers, and Community-Based Organizations to meet and decide where to start in preventing domestic violence and child abuse. Can we develop both short-term and long-term solutions to eliminate this destructive force? If there is a "Will" there is definitely a "Way" to solve the issue of domestic violence and child abuse.

Financial Independence and Stability

"Prayer is good, but you still have to row yourself to shore"

With today's economic challenges, it is necessary to develop strategies which lead to more financial independence and family stability. Many of the middle to low-Income members of the community are faced with the need to pay for high housing cost, higher cost for food, and struggle to provide basic needs such as clothing for their children. How can churches and programs collaborate to provide financial education and asset building strategies to community members attempting to better themselves economically?

Drug and Alcohol Addiction Rehabilitation

Building a "road to recovery"

Many of our community members are dealing with their own "road to recovery". There is clearly a need to provide both substance abuse treatment and preventive methods to improving the overall health of our community. The local church and community programs have been instrumental in facilitating individual recovery from substance abuse, and have supported many of us or our family members through the difficult but very possible way to recovery. It is clearly apparent that the community as a whole must join together to fight against the destructive forces of drug addiction. How can we all meet in partnership to develop solutions that will benefit us all?

Acculturation for Foreign-Born Residents

E Komo Mai: "the welcoming spirit of Hawaii"

Hawaii is known for it's multitude of different ethnic groups, and many of individuals have brought with them their rich cultural heritage to share with others in the community. Our local people have long been known for their welcome spirit and understanding for cultural diversity. We continue to receive an abundance of newcomers, especially our recent arrivals from the Compact of Free Association Nations. It has always been important for newcomers to adapt to local life, and learn about ways to survive in our economic community. What are some of the current programs serving the newcomer population, and how are acculturation methods being implemented? How can churches and community-based organizations get involved in providing acculturation services to our newcomers?

Children and Youth Needs

"It takes a Village to raise a child"

The family unit is an important part to the overall health of our community. It is apparent that we must all look for ways to build strong relationships between family members in an effort not only to preserve the family, but to protect, facilitate, and support the growth of healthy children. Economics, broken families, and the time in which we live all effect the health and wellbeing of our families. Come together with others in the community who can help to support the needs of our keiki so they may grow to be strong and productive members of our society.

Elder Care

"Aging is inevitable for all of us"

The population of our country is growing older and soon there will be a greater percentage of elderly than any other age group. Every family will be pressed with challenges related to aging. Are we all prepared to care for other family members and to provide for the needs of our community members? It's not too early to start the discussion on what can be done,
and to prepare ourselves.

Homelessness to Self-Sufficiency

"Many times a kind helping hand makes all the difference"

As we know, homelessness is a growing issue in our state, and is caused by many issues. It cannot be changed overnight, but with the help of every community member there can be relief for those in need. It's time to bring together the assets and strengths of all who are called to encourage and support self-sufficiency and safety for our neighbors.

Prisoner Re-entry Programs for Former Inmates

"A New Start"

It is apparent that prisoners are re-entering our community with a limited amount of support. Many of our local service providers have been tasked with findings the services these individuals need to succeed in living clean and productive lives. It is important for all of the players to meet at the table, and work together to provide "a new start" on life for those released from prison. Successful prisoner re-entry into the community will benefit not only the individual but their families and the community at-large. How can service providers, community organizations, and government agencies partner to provide opportunities to individuals released from prison? What system (s) are in place locally, and what more is needed to increase success among the recently released prisoners?

Foster Care and Adoption

"To Protect and Foster our Children"

It is important to provide our children with as many resources as possible to assure healthy development. What are the programs available to Foster Parents to assist with providing shelter and a nurturing environment? How can the church and service organizations work together to facilitate a successful foster parent and adoption system in Hawaii? How can we all contribute to making sure children are protected and sheltered?

Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Response

"Survive to Serve"

Will your organization or church survive a disaster? Do you know what will really happen if there is an emergency declared in Hawaii? Does your organization know where to go, or what to do? What if your people, or the neighborhood community comes to you for help? Do you have a plan?
Will you be a victim, or one of those who will "Survive to Serve"?