; Press Room Archives - Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union

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Hawaii Central FCU Staff Support the Boys & Girls Club

Hawaii Central FCU Staff Support the Boys & Girls Club

Dec 17, 2024 | Press Room, Ohana, Keiki

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF HAWAII IS IN THE FINAL PHASE OF THEIR YEAR END FUNDRAISER

HAWAII CENTRAL FCU PROVIDES A BOOST TO TEENS

BGCH serves a diverse population of youth aged 7 to 17, primarily from under-resourced communities. Many of their members come from Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander backgrounds (50%), and a significant portion face socio-economic challenges, with 96% living in low to very low-income households.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 16, 2024

Contact:
Amber Milsap
Community Relations Officer
(808) 441-7364
amber@hawaiicentral.org
www.hawaiicentral.org

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF HAWAII IS IN THE FINAL PHASE OF THEIR YEAR END FUNDRAISER, HAWAII CENTRAL FCU PROVIDES A BOOST TO TEENS

HONOLULU, HI— A team of Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (FCU) staff volunteers worked through the holidays to spread a little holiday cheer to the teens at the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii (BGCH), Waianae Clubhouse.

“Only about a quarter of the way there in our end of year fundraiser, having Hawaii Central FCU approach us in this way and knowing other organizations in our community believe in our mission is a real boost!” said Inglish Jones, BGCH Director of Development whose passion shines through as a beneficiary of BGCH programs. Although the BGCH receives in-kind donations from multiple donors during the holiday season “Our teens are often overlooked,” she continued.

BGCH serves a diverse population of youth aged 7 to 17, primarily from under-resourced communities. Many of their members come from Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander backgrounds (50%), and a significant portion face socio-economic challenges, with 96% living in low to very low-income households. Through 9 Clubhouses and outreach services, Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii reaches over 10,000 young people each year.

“Teens have unique needs,” explained Jones who suggested that “gift cards to McDonald’s or Taco Bell would be a real treat.” Hawaii Central staff volunteers worked

hard and, with the support of their coworkers, were able to raise enough funds to purchase $20 McDonald’s gift cards for all 56 Club teens at the Waianae Clubhouse. Residual funds, after the purchase of gift cards, were donated to the BGCH year end fundraiser.

“Every donation, no matter the size, helps us provide brighter futures for Hawaiʻi’s keiki,” Jones emphasized. “With just a few weeks left in our year-end fundraiser, we invite everyone to visit bgch.com and support our mission to ensure every child feels valued, inspired, and empowered.”

Helping local teens as they transition into their adult life is important to Hawaii Central FCU and, in the coming year, the credit union has plans to address financial literacy needs among BGCH teens.

About Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is recognized by FORBES as a top Credit Union in the State of Hawaii. Founded in 1937, Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving over 16,000 members and has nearly $300 million in assets. Membership is open to all individuals who live, work, worship or attend school on Oahu. Businesses and other legal entities on the island are also eligible for membership.

In addition to McDonalds Gift cards, each teen received “Conquer Life” gear, produced specifically to raise awareness around the Student Choice student loan program for students who demonstrate financial need beyond what is available through traditional sources.

Azaylia, who is 14, said with so much excitement, “Wow, McDonald’s gift cards! Now I can get food after school!”

“It’s moments like this that remind us how impactful your support is,” said Inglish Jones, BGCH Development Director.

“The boys were so excited about the hats and were already planning outfits to match,” said Inglish Jones, BGCH Development Director.

BGCH Development Director Inglish Jones picked up gift bags from the King Street Branch and took a picture with staff volunteers.

FBI On The Bottom Line

FBI On The Bottom Line

Dec 13, 2024 | Ohana, Press Room, Education

FBI HONOLULU WILL JOIN HAWAII CENTRAL FCU ON THE BOTTOM LINE TO DISCUSS FRAUDS AND SCAMS IN HAWAII

According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, (IC3), the state of Hawaii saw $31.8M in losses resulting from cryptocurrency investment scams in 2023. This figure nearly doubled from $16.5M in 2022.

Internet crimes against individuals over the age of 60 have also increased, as this group is by far the most impacted by fraud and scams. According to IC3, the losses resulting from elder fraud in Hawaii have nearly tripled from $10M to $28M in the last three years alone.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 6, 2024

Contact:
Amber Milsap
Community Relations Officer
(808) 441-7364
amber@hawaiicentral.org
www.hawaiicentral.org

FBI HONOLULU WILL JOIN HAWAII CENTRAL FCU ON THE BOTTOM LINE TO DISCUSS FRAUDS AND SCAMS IN HAWAII

HONOLULU, HI—FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Steven Merrill will join Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union as the first guest on The Bottom Line, the credit union’s new episode series aimed at tackling the issues that impact their members and the community they serve. Starting January 15, 2025, the series is set to air on Spectrum Channel 53, the 3rd Wednesday of every month at 6:00 pm. Episodes will also air the following Sunday at 10:30 am.

SAC Merrill will help kick things off on January 15, with an episode focused on elder fraud, including the various scams used to defraud our Kupuna and how to avoid victimization. He will return as a guest in February to provide further insight into cryptocurrency investment scams.

According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, (IC3), the state of Hawaii saw $31.8M in losses resulting from cryptocurrency investment scams in 2023. This figure nearly doubled from $16.5M in 2022.

Internet crimes against individuals over the age of 60 have also increased, as this group is by far the most impacted by fraud and scams. According to IC3, the losses resulting from elder fraud in Hawaii have nearly tripled from $10M to $28M in the last three years alone.

“If an investment sounds too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true,” Merrill warns. “A stranger should never be directing you where to go on your computer, and you should be wary of any stranger who contacts you regarding financial matters.”

If you or someone you know is a victim of a fraud or scam, contact FBI Honolulu at:

• FBI Honolulu Complaint/Tip Line: (808) 566-4300/tips.fbi.gov
• Internet Crime Complaint Center: ic3.gov
For more information on cryptocurrency scams, visit: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/national-crimes-and-victim-resources/cryptocurrency-investment-fraud

The FBI Honolulu’s area of responsibility includes Hawaii, Guam, Saipan and American Samoa.

About Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is recognized by FORBES as a top Credit Union in the State of Hawaii. Founded in 1937, Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving over 16,000 members and has nearly $300 million in assets. Membership is open to all individuals who live, work, worship or attend school on Oahu. Businesses and other legal entities on the island are also eligible for membership.

Lanakila Pacific Paid Work Experience

Lanakila Pacific Paid Work Experience

Dec 13, 2024 | Ohana, Keiki, Press Room, Education

Lanakila Pacific Paid Work Experience Program Makes a Difference Lanakila Pacific and Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union Strengthen Ties

“This internship with Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is important to Lanakila Pacific’s Paid Work Experience Program,” says Employment Services Manager, David Comfort. “It’s helping to break the barriers of stigmatism around disabilities that inhibit individuals with disabilities from entering the workforce and becoming less dependent on social services.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 20, 2024

Contact:

Laurie Hara
Director of Marketing & Development
Lanakila Pacific
808.356.8533
LHara@lanakilapacific.org

Amber Milsap
Community Relations Officer
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union
808.382.2518
Amber@hawaiicentral.org

Lanakila Pacific Paid Work Experience Program Makes a Difference

Lanakila Pacific and Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union Strengthen Ties

Honolulu, Hawaii—Meet Chloe, a participant of Lanakila Pacific who—through their Employment Services, Paid Work Experience Program—hopes to find a job that will allow her to express her artistic talents. With hard work and determination, Chloe successfully landed a paid internship at Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union in its Marketing Department assisting with creating graphic assets for digital and print collateral, among other things.

Lanakila Pacific’s Employment Services prepare individuals with disabilities for jobs that interest and suit them. The goal is to help them overcome challenges towards employment – whatever they may be. Beyond offering classes preparing individuals entering the workforce, Lanakila Pacific’s Employment Services works one-on-one for tailored guidance so participants may confidently start their career and gain independence.

“This internship with Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is important to Lanakila Pacific’s Paid Work Experience Program,” says Employment Services Manager, David Comfort. “It’s helping to break the barriers of stigmatism around disabilities that inhibit individuals with disabilities from entering the workforce and becoming less dependent on social services.”

As a participant-centered program, Lanakila Pacific continually seeks more business partners in a variety of industries to help match participants’ unique skillsets and diverse career interests. This partnership with Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union perfectly suits Chloe and her goals.

“Chloe is certified through `Olelo Community Media, so we thought she would be perfect to help with our video projects,” says Marketing Manager, Travis Uchino. “Through the interview process, we learned about her digital artwork and recognized a potential for her to help with other design projects.”

This opportunity has allowed Chloe to express her creativity in a professional setting, which enables her to develop her communication skills including receiving feedback. “I’m still getting used to receiving different types of feedback,” Chloe says. At Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union, she continues to exercise the soft skills learned from her Employment Services job coach that are required to work alongside people with differing communication styles.

Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union encourages other local businesses to consider partnering with Lanakila Pacific Employment Services. It is a relationship that began quite by accident. “We are always looking to support local businesses and organizations and when we learned Lanakila Pacific does printing, we had them print tote bags for us,” says Uchino.

That relationship further developed as Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union’s Community Relations Officer, Amber Milsap, conducted financial literacy sessions at Lanakila Pacific and learned of the Paid Work Experience Program. “Chloe attended my classes at Lanakila and she has been a Godsend. Coming at a time when our staffing has been impacted by situations beyond our control, Chloe has exceeded our expectations—demonstrating a talent and ability for producing marketing materials.”

This is Lanakila Pacific’s first placement within a financial institution. Other business partners include Kualoa Ranch, Island Popper, Hawaiian Pie Company, Maunalani Nursing and Rehab Center, Uniqlo, Podmore, Bishop Museum, and many others.

About Lanakila Pacific
Lanakila Pacific, a Hawaii-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization offering a family of assistance programs and social enterprises to build independence and improve the quality of life for individuals with cognitive, physical, social or age-related challenges. For more information, visit LanakilaPacific.org.

About Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is recognized by FORBES as Best-In-State Credit Union. Founded in 1937, Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving over 17,000 members and has over $300 million in assets. Membership is open to all individuals who live, work, worship or attend school on Oahu. Businesses and other legal entities on the island are also eligible for membership.

 

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION NURSING SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT COMPLETES CLINICAL ROTATION AT THE QUEEN’S MEDICAL CENTER

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION NURSING SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT COMPLETES CLINICAL ROTATION AT THE QUEEN’S MEDICAL CENTER

Nov 1, 2024 | Education, Ohana, Keiki, Press Room

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION NURSING SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT COMPLETES CLINICAL ROTATION AT THE QUEEN’S MEDICAL CENTER

“You don’t realize what a blessing it is to get a scholarship until you are deep into your studies,” said Jasmine who recognizes the scholarship allows her to focus on what is important. “I want to know everything there is to know about patient care and saving lives.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 1, 2024

Contact:
Amber Milsap, Community Relations Officer
(808) 441-7364
amber@hawaiicentral.org
www.hawaiicentral.org

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION NURSING SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT COMPLETES CLINICAL ROTATION AT THE QUEEN’S MEDICAL CENTER

HONOLULU, HI—“It is such an honor to have been the repeat recipient of this scholarship,” said Jasmine-Kortney Young-Gusman who, last year, was the first ever awardee of the Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (FCU) Nursing Scholarship.

“Jasmine is a great example of someone who deeply cares about her patients”, said Shawna Chong-Ishii, APRN, Jasmine’s supervisor, and instructor at Chaminade University. “Jasmine is a dedicated and driven individual who is excited to further her career in the healthcare field. We are happy to support her in her future endeavors.”

According to the American Hospital Association (AHA), by 2028 there is expected to be a shortage of about 100,000 critical health care workers in the U.S. Here in Hawaii, with a branch at The Queen’s Medical Center, Hawaii Central FCU President Drake Tanabe sees its nursing scholarship as a commitment by Hawaii Central FCU to the community it serves.

“It’s important to us that recipients share in our values,” said Tanabe. “Jasmine has demonstrated a solid commitment to the profession and, ultimately, our community. We are delighted to help support those working tirelessly to provide care to patients.”

Jasmine worked for eight years as a Medical Assistant before the decision to pursue a career as a nurse. “You don’t realize what a blessing it is to get a scholarship until you are deep into your studies,” said Jasmine who recognizes the scholarship allows her to focus on what is important. “I want to know everything there is to know about patient care and saving lives.”

“We are grateful to be on this journey with Jasmine,” said Tanabe. “As she shared with us last year, she is a young mother and the first in her family to go to college. She joined our credit union earlier this week and we are proud to call her a member of the Hawaii Central FCU `Ohana!”

About Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is currently recognized by FORBES as one of the top three Credit Unions in the State of Hawaii. Founded in 1937, Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving over 17,000 members and has over $325 million in assets. Membership is open to all individuals who live, work, worship or attend school on Oahu. Businesses and other legal entities on the island are also eligible for membership.

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION VOLUNTEERS AT HAWAII FOODBANK TO PACK FOOD FOR KEIKI IN PRE-SCHOOLS AND ELEMENTARIES

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION VOLUNTEERS AT HAWAII FOODBANK TO PACK FOOD FOR KEIKI IN PRE-SCHOOLS AND ELEMENTARIES

Aug 5, 2024 | COMMUNITY, Ohana, Keiki, Foodbank, Press Room

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION VOLUNTEERS AT HAWAII FOODBANK TO PACK FOOD FOR KEIKI IN PRE-SCHOOLS AND ELEMENTARIES

“We really depend on volunteers. We had another organization cancel unexpectedly and were so grateful Hawaii Central stepped up to the plate to help us meet our goal,” said Community Engagement and Volunteer Program Coordinator Kimo Brown.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 5, 2024

Contact:
Amber Milsap, Marketing Specialist
(808) 441-7364
amber@hawaiicentral.org
www.hawaiicentral.org

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION VOLUNTEERS AT HAWAII FOODBANK TO PACK FOOD FOR KEIKI IN PRE-SCHOOLS AND ELEMENTARIES

HONOLULU, HI—A team of Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (FCU) staff volunteers were at the Foodbank on Saturday August 3, 2024, and helped to pack about 7,000 bags of food for keiki in Hawaii pre-schools and elementaries. Each bag contained two cans of pasta, one can of pears, and one can of tuna.

“For safety reasons, the bags couldn’t be over 3.5 pounds so they could be sent home in backpacks of children who are three and four years old,” said a volunteer who helped to coordinate Hawaii Central FCU’s team efforts. “Surprisingly, according to the Foodbank, most of these kids are in homes. It was sad.”

“We really depend on volunteers. We had another organization cancel unexpectedly and were so grateful Hawaii Central stepped up to the plate to help us meet our goal,” said Community Engagement and Volunteer Program Coordinator Kimo Brown.

The team was told that the need is growing from a monthly goal to feed 150,000 individuals.

About Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is recognized by FORBES as a top Credit Union in the State of Hawaii. Founded in 1937, Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving over 17,000 members and has over $300 million in assets. Membership is open to all individuals who live, work, worship or attend school on Oahu. Businesses and other legal entities on the island are also eligible for membership.

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION PRESENTS $5,000 CHECK TO CHAMINADE WOMEN’S SOFTBALL TEAM

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION PRESENTS $5,000 CHECK TO CHAMINADE WOMEN’S SOFTBALL TEAM

Apr 16, 2024 | Ohana, Keiki, Press Room

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION PRESENTS $5,000 CHECK TO CHAMINADE WOMEN’S SOFTBALL TEAM

HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION PRESENTS $5,000 CHECK TO CHAMINADE WOMEN’S SOFTBALL TEAM

HONOLULU, HI—Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (FCU) presented the Chaminade Women’s Softball Team with a check for $5,000.00 before their game against Academy of Art on April 7, 2024.

“Studies have shown the positive impact sports have on the lives of students, both on their grades and their self-esteem,” said Hawaii Central FCU President Drake Tanabe who knows the difficulties of being a student athlete. “The ladies work so hard. Many participate in the program for little more than the love of the game, an example set by Coach Kent [Yamaguchi].”

“I’m proud of the team both on and off the field,” said Coach Kent who commented that the ladies understand academics are as important as the game and participate in community events whenever chances arise.

Coach Kent has volunteered his time coaching Chaminade Women’s Softball for nearly 20 years and his dedication shines through with his winning track record, unmatched at the school. In 2023, the team led the Pacific West Conference, set a school record with 24 triples, and ranked fifth in NCAA Division II with a 0.52 per game average. With 22-24 record and 14-17 conference win totals, the most since 2013, the team had a successful season that culminated in a record—six All-PacWest selections.

Caption: Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union Presents Chaminade Women’s Softball Team with a $5,000 Check. Executive Vice President Gary Nakata, President Drake Tanabe, and Community Relations Officer Amber Milsap are pictured here to the left of the Team and Board Director Ariel Chun and Marketing Manager Travis Uchino on the right.

About Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is currently recognized by FORBES as one of the top three Credit Unions in the State of Hawaii. Founded in 1937, Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving over 17,000 members and has over $300 million in assets. Membership is open to all individuals who live, work, worship or attend school on Oahu. Businesses and other legal entities on the island are also eligible for membership.

 

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