Valerie Chang was only 42 when she was diagnosed with idiopathic emphysema – a form of COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. “It’s rather severe, with no known cause,” explains Chang, now 59. “They’ve explored all the possible causes, including genetic,…
1. FOLLOW YOUR PASSION Choose a nonprofit with a mission that you’re personally passionate about. This will make it easier for you to commit the time and energy it takes to add value. 2. SEEK SUPPORT FROM YOUR EMPLOYER I’m…
The mission of Touch A Heart is to teach single mothers – who are recovering from addiction – the culinary arts so they may join the workforce. But more importantly, cooking is a skill 1 Kumabe…
Dyslexia is a neurobiological and genetic learning disability related to language. Students with dyslexia often struggle with oral and written language, according to the Hawaii Branch of the International Dyslexia Association. “It’s a hidden disability,” explains Margaret Higa, 53, who…
Ninety percent of a child’s brain is developed by age 5, so it’s critical that every child have access to high-quality child care and early learning programs, according to the nonprofit Hawaii Children’s Action Network. Of course, that’s not everything…
Are you in a Dispute with a relative, neighbor, landlord or co-worker? The Mediation Center of the Pacific can help you peacefully resolve those disputes and many others - usually faster and at less cost than arbitration or the courts.…
It doesn’t look like a homeless shelter – and that’s the point. Cheery paint and graphic shapes tie together the 22 bed areas, creating a hip, treehouse feel. Bathrooms are private and gender neutral, a recognition of the fact that 40…
You and I are part of Abilities Unlimited’s mission to empower individuals with disabilities. “We could have a really, really ready client, but, if the rest of the community – specifically employers – don’t buy into what we’re doing, then…
Charlie Lorenz knows what it’s like to be homeless and hungry. As a teenager, he lived on the streets of Honolulu due to a family dispute. “With that experience, Charlie does know the hunger and lack of hope you experience…
