During December, it’s nice to pause amongst the holiday hustle and think of all the blessings in our lives. For me, I’m incredibly grateful to be part of Hawaii Island, and our East Hawaii community that helps guide the mission of Child &Family Service. Everyday our dedicated staff, alongside other community partners in East Hawaii, bring hope and healing to those grappling with some of the most difficult life challenges.
It’s encouraging to reflect on those we serve, who, in their vulnerability and courage, trust our team members to help navigate their journey. Each participant shows our Hawaii Island community their strength, teaching us all invaluable lessons about life, problem-solving and the enduring power of the human spirit.
Despite the challenges many of our program participants have endured, it’s inspiring to see how our staff each day are building strong relationships within our community. East Hawaii is more than a location. It’s our home. We are so grateful for this community, our trusted care partners in East Hawaii and the CFS ‘ohana for creating a culture where hope and healing flourish.
These positive feelings help us as we work with other community-based organizations to combat issues facing East Hawaii. Recently, we’ve seen the increased need for domestic violence services on Hawaii Island, highlighting the vital role of community-based organizations like ours.
In 2021, the CFS domestic violence programs served 976 families. That number skyrocketed to 1,606 in FY 2023 — a stark 60% increase.
Although we are seeing a rise in domestic violence, we also witness the healing for these families each day. With the holistic approach to work hand-in-hand with other local nonprofits, we serve the entire family. This community partnership model has proven most effective in ending the cycle of violence and fostering recovery for East Hawaii families.
From safety services to advocacy, education, support groups and counseling, together we strive to provide a full spectrum of care. We have learned that it takes a village to revitalize families, to help them break their traumas of domestic violence and rebuild.
At CFS, we recognize that this team approach provides a powerful safety net for East Hawaii families, with both the CFS staff members alongside the community care partners together working to create positive change. The key to bringing upon a brighter future for families is first and foremost prioritizing the health and well-being of our team. It is vital that staff also feel cared for. This allows them to fully promote a healthy life and new beginning for domestic violence survivors.
“I am grateful for the people I work with. We are such a tight knit team, I am grateful for the ways we support and care for each other,” said Leimana Koehler, of the CFS East Hawaii Domestic Violence Advocacy program.
All of us at CFS want to express our deepest gratitude for the families we serve who trust us with their journey, and our supporters.
We also are thankful for our incredibly important community partners in East Hawaii — your perseverance and dedication to creating a healthy path for generations to come is inspiring.
Christine Fliniau (Terry) is director of East Hawaii Island Programs at Child &Family Service.