Camp Agape Hawaii, a four-day camp for children of incarcerated parents, recently received a $10,000 award from the Harry &Jeannette Weinberg Foundation through its Weinberg &Friends Program.
The Kiwanis Club of East Hawaii put in 100 hours of community service to earn the Weinberg award and chose Camp Agape as this year’s recipient.
Founded by Pastor Roy Yamamoto on Oahu 13 years ago, the camp was adopted by Kahu Charlie Kama, who brought it to the Big Island in 2013. Camp Agape stems from a mission to share God’s love, “Agape (unconditional) Love.”
Incarceration has a devastating effect on families, especially the children. Many campers deal with abuse, rejection and poverty. They often think crime is a part of their lifestyle. Camp Agape’s primary goal is to steer these children away from this belief and instill Godly values and morals with solid life lessons.
More than 150 volunteers generously share their time and love upon the children. Campers participate in activities that include canoe paddling, horseback riding, surfing, crafting and dance.
The Hawaii County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney has noticed a decline in the island’s juvenile crime rate and gives credit to the camp.
“The Weinberg award allows us to continue to save youth from incarceration — one life at a time,” Kama said. “We also plan to do follow-up events, allowing us to continue to build strong, trusting relationships with the children.
“We want to turn their situations around and give them the opportunity to live a good, prosperous life.”