HCAP Weekly August 1, 2016

In this week’s issue:

Hā Initiative Students Start the New School Year Learning about Robotics
HCAP Youth Services Awarded with the 2016 Starbucks Foundation Opportunity for Youth Grant
Na Lima Hana Participant Finds Employment and Supports His Family
Partnership with Aloha Harvest Enhances Services at the Leahi District Service Center
HCAP Summer 2016 Quarterly Newsletter
HCAP Head Start Now Accepting Applications for the 2016-2017 School Year

Hā Initiative Students Start the New School Year Learning about Robotics

Students at the Hā Initiative: Creative STEM After-School Program Kalihi STEM Exploration Center had a fantastic start to the school year! The year began with the exciting topic of robotics, since the First Lego League season will be kicking off this month. The emphasis of the week was teamwork, collaboration, critical thinking, and innovation.

The students were introduced to a variety of robotic parts like motors, cables, central processors, and light and ultrasonic sensors. They were then challenged to put together a simple car, with guidance from STEM teacher, Mr. Chris. However, the catch was that each team member could only hold specific mechanical parts, so communication and interpersonal skills were an important part of success! The students had to coordinate in order to assemble the robot.

Several of the students and parents expressed gratitude for now having a STEM program at Kaiulani Elementary School. Mr. Kamaka, the grandfather of one of the students was grateful that his grandson could participate in the program. “After years of attending school here, he will finally have a chance to participate in robotics!” Mr. Kamaka said.

HCAP Youth Services Awarded with the 2016 Starbucks Foundation Opportunity for Youth Grant

HCAP would like to thank the Starbucks Foundation for their recent contribution to the HCAP Youth Services program. The 2016 Starbucks Foundation Opportunity for Youth grant will be used for education and employment initiatives. HCAP Youth Services program is 1 of 30 non-profit organizations within the United States to receive a grant.

The grants are a reflection of the Foundation’s long history of investing in proven programs that equip young people ages 16-24 with the skills and training required to participate in the global economy. Starbucks partners (employees) engage and volunteer with the organizations to help young people become job-ready and develop skills to continue on the pathway of opportunity. Since launching in 1997, the Starbucks Foundation has grown to support communities around the globe.

We are looking forward to continuing our wonderful partnership with Starbucks!

Na Lima Hana Participant Finds Employment and Supports His Family

When William arrived at the Windward District Service Center, he had recently lost his job and wanted to obtain a new one in order to support his family. The Windward District Service Center advised William to sign up for the Na Lima Hana Employment Core Services program. Shortly after, William made an appointment to enroll in the program. Determined to support his family, William began to apply for many positions with the help of HCAP staff. Within few weeks of job searching, William obtained employment with Roberts Hawaii and was hired to be a Bus Driver Tour Guide. William’s undying determination helped him secure employment that will keep him and his family comfortable. Congratulations William!

Partnership with Aloha Harvest Enhances Services at the Leahi District Service Center

With the help of Aloha Harvest, the Leahi District Service Center has been able to give food to clients in the Kaimuki-Palolo district. During the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in June, Aloha Harvest brought food to the Leahi District Service Center for clients who had been waiting to sign up for LIHEAP.

Aloha Harvest gathers donated food and beverages from various restaurants, caterers, hotels, businesses, and other food distributors. The donated food and beverages are delivered to social service agencies throughout Hawaii. The Leahi District Service Center has partnered with Aloha Harvest for 4 years.

Aloha Harvest is currently holding their 5th Annual Compassion in Arts Competition. The competition is open to Hawaii students from grades 7 to 12. Artwork will be displayed at the Honolulu Museum of Art School and finalists will be recognized. For more information, visit their website at www.alohaharvest.org or call (808) 537-6945.

Thank you to Aloha Harvest and all of their donors for their service!

HCAP Summer 2016 Quarterly Newsletter

We’re excited to share the Summer 2016 issue of Ku`i Na Lono: Spread the News

Featuring these stories and more:
• Hā Initiative: Creative STEM After-School Program Students Attend Field Trip at the Loʻi
• Youth Services & Starbucks Host Conference
• LIHEAP Participant Benefits from Weatherization Program

Download the Summer, 2016 Quarterly here.

View past Quarterly reports here.

HCAP Head Start Now Accepting Applications for the 2016-2017 School Year

Are you or someone you know in need of free or affordable preschool? Spread the word! HCAP Head Start is now accepting applications for children 3-5 years for the 2016-2017 school year. Families are encouraged to apply by calling (808) 847-2400 or visiting our website.