HCAP Weekly October 8, 2018

Former C-Base Graduate Admitted to the National Guard
SCSEP Participant Continues in Workforce as Maintenance Worker
Central District Service Center Collaborates with HCAP Head Start at Ohana Produce Distribution
Leahi Kupuna Learn about Alzheimer’s and Blue Zones Project
Paramedics Visit Aiea Head Start Children

Former C-Base Graduate Admitted to the National Guard

In May 2017, Alyssa graduated and received her diploma through the Competency-Based Community School Diploma Program (C-Base) Program. While enrolled at C-Base at the Central District Service Center, Alyssa was a committed student, often scoring 100% on unit tests while maintaining employment outside of class.

A year and a half after graduation, Alyssa achieved another milestone: her acceptance into the Hawaii Air National Guard. Alyssa was kind enough to invite Mr. Smith, her former C-base teacher, to her recent oath of enlistment. This is a new stage in Alyssa’s life and a path that will ensure her lifelong success. We are extremely proud of how far Alyssa has come and wish her luck and blessings in all of her endeavors.

SCSEP Participant Continues in Workforce as Maintenance Worker

This past summer, Dennis was laid off at a popular casual restaurant chain in Hawaii. He had been working as a maintenance worker and had planned to eventually retire there. But due to restructuring, Dennis was ultimately let go. Even though he was about to retire in his current position, he still wanted to supplement his Social Security payments with some income.

When his younger brother Glenn, a participant in HCAP’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) told Dennis about the program, Dennis expressed strong interest. He applied, completed intake, and was placed at a training site. Dennis is currently placed at the Foster Botanical Garden as a maintenance worker. He is happy to be continuing to do what he loves: completing handyman and painting jobs while supplementing his income.

Central District Service Center Collaborates with HCAP Head Start at Ohana Produce Distribution

The Central District Service Center has been closely working with HCAP Head Start on a regular basis. The Central District Service Center staff has received referrals from HCAP Head Start, providing HCAP Head Start parents with employment training and resources. Last month, HCAP Head Start Family Advocates Karin, Sacha, and Narcissa assisted with the Ohana Produce Food Distribution.

Nearly 1,500 pounds of food were distributed to over 100 individuals. In return, the HCAP Head Start Family Advocates used the event as an opportunity to help promote Head Start preschool enrollment. The Central District Service Center looks forward to more collaborative opportunities with HCAP Head Start.

Leahi Kupuna Learn about Alzheimer’s and Blue Zones Project

Last week, at the Leahi District Service Center’s Kupuna Independent Life Series, the kupuna gathered to hear guest speakers from the Alzheimer’s Association and the Blue Zones Project. The group learned about certain lifestyle choices that may help prevent Alzheimer’s (good nutrition and diet, an active brain), as well as some potential signs of Alzheimer’s (frequent falling, forgetfulness).

The kupuna also learned about Blue Zones, the regions of the world where people are living long and vibrant lives. The people inhabiting the Blue Zones share some common lifestyle characteristics, including importance of family, strong social networks, a diet rich in plants, and moderate physical activity. Led by the Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA), the Blue Zones speaker informed the kupuna of community initiatives such as sponsored walks and cooking demonstrations in Makiki, Mōʻiliʻili, and McCully. The Leahi kupuna ended their day with a healthy lunch.

Paramedics Visit Aiea Head Start Children

The children from Aiea I,II, and Pre Plus Head Start received a special visit from the paramedics of Emergency Medical Services. The paramedics introduced the tools they need to use on a daily basis during emergency transports; they also taught the children about safety. Towards the end of the visit, the children were able to role-play as paramedics. They had the chance to go inside the ambulance and check out all of the cool things inside, including tools and rescue gear.