December 19, 2013

Local nonprofit organization, Hawaiian Community Assets (HCA), was recently recognized by the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco (FRBSF) for its place-based youth financial education program.  The program was highlighted in an article drafted by HCA staff and published in FRBSF's Fall 2013 Community Investment publication promoting innovative Native community development initiatives.  Click here to view the Community Investment Issue.

"It's an honor to have HCA's story and the success of our youth program recognized by an institution like the Federal Reserve Bank," said HCA Executive Director and article co-author, Jeff Gilbreath.  "The recognition really belongs to HCA's co-founders for their vision and the countless youth who developed the (Kahua Waiwai) curriculum and program, which has inspired more than 930 their peers across the state to become financially saavy."

The article comes at a time when Hawaii reports that 13.8% of its 16-24 year olds are out of work and school, which "could depress economic opportunity for all Hawaii (residents) for years to come' according to the DC-based youth advocacy group, Young Invicibles.

"When we look at our Hawaii children, we see in them innovation, creativity, and passion to change the world by working locally to fulfill their responsibility of becoming the next generation of college graduates, business leaders, and home owners," finished Gilbreath, citing that 25% of youth served with place-based Kahua Waiwai Financial Education since 2009 have increased their career-readiness by developing resumes, securing employment, and/or enrolling in job/career training programs.

HCA continues to build support among private businesses, nonprofits, and institutions for investment in youth financial education for Hawaii's children.  In September 2013, 5 local businesses and institutions collectively purchased 250 participant handbooks that will be gifted to freshman of Waianae and Nanakuli High Schools in 2014 so they can participate in free, place-based financial education during their school days.

For more information about HCA's Kahua Waiwai Youth Financial Education Program, please contact Program Coordinator, Lahela Williams, at 808.587.7660.

Mahalo to Our Annual Partners Investing in Our Next Generation!