HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0749.001 2022-2024 ,p/ Counci l
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Root&Rise Hawaii
?O24 MAR —5 AN
March 4th,2024 i
RE: Res. 445-24
Aloha Hawaii County Councilmembers and all in attendance:
On behalf of Root&Rise Hawaii,we would like to deeply thank Councilmember Michelle
Galimba and the District 6 office for the opportunity to further our program,Nature&Art as Therapy.
Nature &Art as Therapy (NAT)provides free mental health support through workshops that
teach 'dim-and art-based projects with interwoven themes of wellness and opportunities for
mindfulness, socializing, and service. Example workshops include crisis planning with collage, forest
restoration infused with guided meditation, and lau lau-making. Primarily benefiting adults throughout
West Hawaii,NAT reaches those most impacted by mental health challenges with significant barriers to
access through social service collaboration, workshops in decentralized areas, and transportation
coordination. The program combats stigma through inclusive,public workshops, and provides insight to
community mental health through data collection.
Since September 2021,NAT has engaged over 300 individuals from Kona to Ka`u,with 98% of
participants reporting improved mental well-being. Testimonials from participants, community-based
facilitators, and social service partners further highlight NAT's impact:
"It has been helping us with coping skills."
"I like that it involves our clients in a positive activity that improves their mental health and wellbeing."
"The workshop allowed me the opportunity to relax and reflect on what is most important to me in this
moment of my life and think about ways to care for myself better"
"The environment, the inclusive and welcoming energy, the opportunity to be present in the moment."
Through these contingency funds,we will be able to compensate facilitators and purchase supply needs
for 18 workshops through June 2024, serving a total of 120 - 240 participants,We are tremendously
grateful for your support in building this program and uplifting our communities,together.
Mahalo nui loa,
Aliza Gebin&Mona Trenae ;1 j '
Root&Rise Hawaii, Co-founders
rootandrisehawaii.org
The mission of Root&Rise Hawaii is to provide therapeutic mental health support and services accessible to
underserved populations in Hawaii. Our programs foster a sense of creativity,competency,and resilience;
cultivate connection to place,community,and self; and facilitate community integration and cohesion.
Future plans include expanded day programming,workforce development,and supportive,transitional housing
for adults with serious mental illness in Hawaii.
Comm. '
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