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Naomi Kuuipo Ahu
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Fiscal & Administrative Coordinator
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KEAUKAHA ONE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT 501 (C)3
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RISE 21"CENTURY AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM &
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YOUfH PADDLING PROGRAM
67 Keokea Loop
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Hilo, Hawoii 96720
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Telephone- (808) 756-5859
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April 13, 2015
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Members of the Hawaii County Council
Rc Written Testimony Supporting Recommendations for the Nun -Profit Grants FY 2015-16 for
BOTH Keaukuha One Youth Development Programs
Dear Members of the Hawaii County Council
My name is Naomi Aha a 25 -year resident of the Hilo district and a graduate of mac University of Hawaiian Hilo
College of Business and Economics Baccalaureate program and Hawaii Pacific University's Masmr of Arts in
Organizational Change program_ In addition, I am [he sole fiscal and administrative Support for the RISE and Youth
Paddling programs and was instrumental in its initial creation.
I have worked alongside the RISE Executive Director, Shadd Keahi Warfield on various community projects and
programs involving youth in our community (specifically the Keaukaha and Pannewa Hawaiian Homestead areasl
for the past 12 years. Through such experiences, 1 have recognized the challenges our local youth face such as
exposure to drugs, alcohol, abuse, poverty, suicide, domestic violence, and mote.
It is extremely important for these youth to have exposure to opportunities to offset such behaviors and/or
circumstances and to help them recognize their we potential in becoming valuable contributors to the sustainability
of our community and future generations. 1 have extreme confidence that the RISE and Youth Paddling programs
will contribute greatly to this need.
An appropriation of funding to support our continued efforts would really support our goals moving forward.
Therefore. I greatly support the recommendations for the non-profit granas for FY 2015-16 to our programs and truly
appreciate your consideration into this matter.
Sincerely,
Naomi K. Abu
Comm. No. 112. V
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