Foster youth need help and support
The foster care system is in dire need of compassionate community members who are willing to become resource caregivers, caseworkers, etc. Our community, and the rest of the nation, is facing a growing crisis with an increasing number of children in the foster care system and a distressing shortage of foster parents to meet their needs.
As a former foster youth who has just recently transitioned out of the foster care system, my journey has been marked by 14 placements in six years, including group homes, therapeutic foster homes and shelters.
I can personally attest to the profound impact of providing children in crisis with a stable, nurturing environment. It is within these loving spaces that children have the opportunity to heal from the traumas that have shaped their young lives and the chance for a brighter and more hopeful future.
If there’s one piece of advice I could offer to those contemplating working with foster youth, it is this: Above all, be kind.
Expressing empathy, even in the midst of complex and uncertain situations speaks volumes. By consistently demonstrating patience and compassion, you can create an environment characterized by safety and acceptance, leading to a transformation that goes beyond the surface level.
For those considering becoming foster parents or volunteering to support these children, I encourage you to explore the resources and opportunities available at rcg.hawaii.gov/.
This website provides valuable information on how you can become licensed, volunteer, find support groups, upcoming trainings and events, and additional resources.
By taking the initiative to become a part of a child’s life, you can play a crucial role in making an everlasting, positive impact.
Naiya Spring
Hilo
Kudos for concert featuring pianist
Mahalo to the Hawaii Concert Society for bringing award-winning pianist and humanitarian Mahani Teave to the University of Hawaii at Hilo Performing Arts Center for an evening of inspiring and uplifting music.
The mix of classical piano favorites, including Chopin and Liszt, along with ancestral chants and contemporary music of Rapa Nui was pure poetry.
Her hands flew across the keyboard as light, fast and colorful as butterfly wings to produce waves of amazing, fluid magic.
If the wind, rain and sea could play the piano, this is surely how it would sound.
Sylvia Dahlby
Hilo
Ask politicians for ceasefires
Endless wars.
We must end the climate-changing, carbon-intensive horrors of wars.
Demand of Sens. Mazie Hirano and Brian Schatz and Gov. Josh Green and President Biden a ceasefire in Ukraine and Israel and Gaza.
Gary Harrold
Hilo