HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0676.001 2004-2006 iT
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March 13, 2006
Councilman Fred Holschuh
Chair, Nonprofit Grant Review Committee
Committee Members
Aloha,
The Honoka'a Business Association became aware of a fiscal crisis at the YWCA
Hamakua Youth Center in December 2005, and several of our members joined
forces with other community members and organizations to form a new Youth
Center Advisory Committee. We then learned that the Center had to close its
doors for 2 weeks and that it was on the verge of having to close permanently
due to funding and staffing issues. Fortunately, the Center reopened with new
vitality and is now going strong. We understand that the Center has over 175
youth attending at different times and that as many as 60 youth per day may be
enjoying themselves there.
We also have been told, however, that despite the active involvement of youth,
parents, and members of the Advisory Committee that funding is still a serious
problem. The Honoka'a Business Association strongly supports this wonderful
community resource for youth. Without a place for the youth to relax, do
homework, visit their friends and play, these intermediate and high school youth
would be in danger of succumbing to drugs and alcohol. The Center plays a vital
role in the community and we cannot recommend more highly a program that
deserves substantial fiscal support from the County. Please consider it's funding
one of your highest priorities.
Sincerely,
Lois Keb, President
Comm. No.
Ref. To:
Rof. Uate