For many students and parents, the last school year was full of stress, uncertainty and boredom. As the students return to school, we wanted to ensure they had the things they needed to have a safe and successful year so that they can focus on learning and growing. We were able to do just that, thanks to the generosity and care of our congregation 'ohana, community volunteers and staff who donated supplies, funds and time! Because of you all, we were able to give the students school supplies, laptops, gift cards, clothes, shoes and new backpacks! Most importantly, the students and parents have peace of mind knowing that they don't have to worry about trying to afford school necessities.
Share A Little Sweetness Along The Way
Since he was a child, John Toillion wanted to participate in the cross-state bike ride that takes place annually in his home state of Iowa. Ten years ago, while volunteering at the event, he promised himself that he’d soon register as a participant. However, it wasn’t until last year that he got around to adding it to his bucket list as a must-do. The onset of the pandemic interrupted those plans, but after a diagnosis of a health condition and the realization that he wasn’t getting any younger, he decided that he wouldn’t let another year pass him by without entering the ride. So even after not riding a bike for more than 60 years, John registered for the week long, 400-500 mile event along with more than 18,000 other participants. The object of the ride isn’t speed nor is it required that all the miles be completed, but is instead about adventure, camaraderie, perseverance and community building. John decided to do just that by using the event to spread awareness and garner support for the work we do here at FPH by hosting an online fundraiser on our behalf. His original goal was to raise $1,0000 to support our programs, but after receiving $900 the first day, he kept raising the goal until he doubled the original one. He said that it was the thoughts, words of encouragement, support and prayers that helped him push through the tough times, especially when he was going uphill. We are thankful to John and his network for exemplifying the power of community and perseverance. Bonus: John signed up for the race with his older brother with the intention of them completing the race together. But they often got separated because his brother would stop along the way to give lollipops to the children who were selling lemonade on the side of the road. In this way, John’s brother reminds us all to share a little sweetness as we strive to complete our goals.
Meet the Team An Interview with Amanda Bacoro, Case Manager The FPH team (staff, volunteers, and board members) is diverse. We value this diversity as one of the strongest factors in our collective success. Drawing upon our range of cultural backgrounds, skills, educational levels, beliefs, and experiences fosters empathy, creativity, and community. In our upcoming newsletters we will be featuring a variety of team members at FPH so you can get to know them a little better. This month, we get to know Amanda. Tell us a little bit about yourself. My name is Amanda Bacoro. I was born and raised in Kaneohe and helping others has always been a passion of mine. I have a Bachelors of Social Work degree from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. I have worked in the human services field for over 6 years. What brought you to Family Promise? I have worked with homeless families for the last 3 years so when this opportunity came up, I knew I wanted to be apart of such an important project. Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies? I enjoy spending time with my family and going to the beach. What’s something you’re proud of? I'm proud to be able to serve my community and help others. This job is not easy, and is certainly not for everyone. I'm glad that I have the passion and ability to do what I do! What’s something you find challenging about your work at Family Promise? It's always heartbreaking to see what some of our clients go through. But knowing that we can help them get through those hard times, is the rewarding part. That's what I try to remember in tough times. When you are not working, what's your favorite way to relax? Being with my family and finding something fun to do.
Opmerkingen