HCAP WEEKLY October 21, 2024

Windward STEM Students Learn About Excavators and Hydraulics

Windward Hā Initiative: Creative STEM After-School Program students were visited by guest speaker, Taz Kahala, from Papé Machinery who visited Kaʻaʻawa Elementary School to teach students about the machine operating field through excavators and hydraulics in their school garden. Students first learned about the anatomy of an excavator. The cab is where operators maneuver the excavator and is usually enclosed with windows to protect the operator from any dust or flying objects. The boom cylinder helps to lift and lower the main boom – the arm-like structure that extends from the machine and allows for digging, lifting and other operations.

Student, Keila, gave the analogy, “It looks like a boomerang!” Furthermore, students learned that the arm actuator tube uses hydraulic power to move the arm and boom, and the bucket is used for digging. For the excavator to work, there needs to be a working engine, which is found near the control valves and hydraulic pump. The main takeaway of the lesson was that although machines are very useful, the most important part of the machine is the operator.

There were different stations for the students to visit within the Keiki Construction Zone – a section to learn more about hydraulics and the mini excavator pits. Here, students could simulate practicing their operating skills using miniature remote control excavators. As student, Sadie, moved through each station, she noted that this was the “best day ever!”

At the end of the lesson, students expressed their gratitude to Uncle Taz for taking the time to teach them about hydraulics and giving them an unforgettable hands-on experience. He was able to share with students the many opportunities that exist in the machine operating field.

Click here to learn more about the Hā Initiative.

Kalihi-Palama and Leahi Staff Attend Resource Fair at Kukui Gardens

Recently, HCAP Kalihi-Palama District and HCAP Leahi District staff participated in the Kukui Gardens sponsored resource fair. The event was hosted to ensure tenants at Kukui Gardens are aware of services and resources available to them through partnerships within their community. Partner organizations such as Queen’s Medical Center, Kalihi-Palama Health Center, and others participated in the event. The resource fair was teeming with tenants and residents from surrounding neighborhoods. Attendants received brochures and information about resources and services available at HCAP and other partners, as well as lunch at the event.

HCAP’s Kalihi-Palama staff presented a brief introduction to HCAP’s programs and services. They spoke about HCAP’s Head Start and Early Head Start program, Nā Lima Hana Employment Core Services Program, Weatherization Assistance Program, Hawai’i Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP), and HCAP Income Tax Services. The value added by HCAP’s partners attending contributed to a well-organized and robust resource event. HCAP staff are eager to participate in events that promote self-reliance in the community.

Click here to learn more about HCAP’s programs and services.

Well-Rounded Development with Early Head Start

Ms. Cappie, Ms. Carrie, and the children and parents of Early Head Start (EHS) West I & II had a blast developing their gross motor and cognitive skills during last week’s socialization. Monthly socializations are a vital aspect of HCAP’s EHS program as it allows for pregnant women, families, and infants and toddlers up to age 3 to engage in developmentally appropriate activities within their community. While at the Michael S. Nakamura Neighborhood Park, the children learned about the importance of gross motor skills through balancing on stepping stones. They also learned the vital social skills of sharing and taking turns. An extension of this activity included a story and dancing session at the nearby Mililani Public Library. Parents and children are provided with the opportunity to explore their community and build sustainable and trusting relationships, all while participating in a culturally and age appropriate early childhood education experience.

Click here to learn more about Head Start and Early Head Start.