BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF HAWAII IS IN THE FINAL PHASE OF THEIR YEAR END FUNDRAISER
HAWAII CENTRAL FCU PROVIDES A BOOST TO TEENSBGCH 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.
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
"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
“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.
Congratulations Kira! You Won a $100 VISA Gift Card!
When asked about how she feels about saving, she informed us that she has already saved about $400 and said, "I'm saving for college."
Much thanks to all who entered our drawing for National Credit Union Youth Month by submitting a coloring page. Congratulations to Kira, who submitted a coloring page and won our drawing for a $100 Visa Gift Card.
When asked about how she feels about saving, she informed us that she has already saved about $400 and said, "I'm saving for college."
Kira's Grandmother, Molly is a member of Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union and understands the importance of teaching the next generation about smart money management. Our drawing gave her and other grandparents/parents a fun way to engage with children on the subject. Although she says she encouraged all of her grandchildren to submit an entry, Kira was the only one who entered.
"I spent two days coloring this," said Kira who added that it was difficult choosing colors.
While the winner was chosen by random drawing, we must say that if it was based on color theory and effort, Kira's vibrant entry was a top contender!
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.
HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION SUPPORTS LANAKILA PACIFIC AS THEY CELEBRATE 85 YEARS, SUPPORTS LOCAL ECONOMY
HAWAII CENTRAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION SUPPORTS LANAKILA PACIFIC AS THEY CELEBRATE 85 YEARS, SUPPORTS LOCAL ECONOMY
HONOLULU, HI—Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (FCU) will be holding their 86th Annual Meeting on March 23, 2023, at the Japanese Cultural Center. The theme this year is Back to the Basics and longstanding commitments of the credit union. In addition to focusing on the needs of Hawaii Central FCU members, that means supporting the community and economy where members live, work, worship and attend school.
As a part of their commitment to their members and community, Hawaii Central FCU teamed up with Lanakila Pacific in support of the organization’s mission to build independence and improve quality of life for individuals with cognitive, physical, social, or age-related challenges. With a long and storied history of serving the community, the partnership with Lanakila Pacific is just one example of Hawaii Central FCU’s dedication to put people first.
Members attending the Hawaii Central FCU annual meeting will enjoy lilikoi bars and haupia pie from Lanakila Kitchen. They will also walk away with a custom tote bag printed by Lanakila Custom Products. And, in the spirit of Aloha for the community we share, Lanakila Pacific is making a gracious donation, by way of some tasty treats, for raffle giveaways at the Hawaii Central FCU annual meeting.
“Lanakila Pacific plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth and opportunity here on Oahu. The work they do through their kitchen, disability services, meals on wheels, and custom products programs aligns perfectly with our mission to empower our members and invest in the local economy,” said Hawaii Central FCU President Drake Tanabe.
Last year, Lanakila Pacific’s Employment Services helped 186 adults with disabilities, high school students and youth; 37 successfully completing a training program, and 28 adults with disabilities placed in competitive employment.
“This year marks Lanakila Pacific’s 85th Anniversary. We are honored to collaborate with them as a part of our mission to support our local community,” Tanabe added. “At HCFCU, we believe in the
power of our `ohana (family) working together. By supporting our local economy and Lanakila Pacific, we’re doing more than just helping individuals; we’re building a stronger future for all of Hawaii, together.”
To round out efforts to support our local economy, along with the tote bag from Lanakila Pacific, members will take home gifts purchased from Big Island Bees, Aloha Edibles, Som’ Good Seasonings, and Mari’s Gardens.
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.
HONOLULU, HI—“I’m thankful I’m going to be a nurse and it will be, in part, because of Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (FCU),” said Jasmine-Kortney Young-Gusman, the first ever awardee of the Hawaii Central FCU Nursing Scholarship.
“I graduate in Spring 2026, and plan to continue working in Hawai'i either in the Emergency Room or in the Operating room,” said Jasmine who added that she works well under pressure and feels called back to the high-pressure settings of the Emergency and Operating rooms.
“Jasmine’s story of fighting through adversity is heartwarming. We are so proud to be a part of her educational journey and celebrate with her as she hits such an important milestone in that journey,” said Hawaii Central FCU President Drake Tanabe, who added that Jasmine and her story exemplify our mission and the community of people we aim to serve at Hawaii Central FCU.
Jasmine earned her white coat at a ceremony on March 2, 2024. For Jasmine and others in her cohort, the ceremony is the midway marker of their time at Chaminade and the beginning of their clinical rotations.
She fought through tears as she relayed her story as the first in her family to attend college. Jasmine said the scholarship brought her the validation she needed, knowing that people in the community believed in her potential.
Before attending Chaminade, she shared that she worked for eight years as a Medical Assistant with Straub where she became a certified ECG and Phlebotomy technician—gaining experience in the Emergency Room, Operating Room, and Urology Department.
While there, she enjoyed a sense of fulfillment and happiness through building meaningful connections with her patients over the years.
That sense of fulfillment, along with the birth of her first child, prompted Jasmine to pursue a degree in Nursing. She says the scholarship has really helped her meet her school expenses and maintain balance with her responsibilities at home with her 2-year-old son.
April is Credit Union Youth Month:
Help young ones learn about financial literacy by exposing them early to the idea of sound money habits. Wondering where to start? Here are a few ideas to help get you started:
Earning Money:
This fundamental concept helps them understand the value of money and the effort needed to earn it. Encourage them to earn money by doing house chores or other jobs around the house.
Setting Savings Goals:
Help them plan for things they want to buy, like a new toy or game. A simple piggy bank and writing down how much they have saved versus how much they need will help! They can also open a savings account at the credit union and learn to start banking.
Counting Money:
Instill money-counting skills using different coins and notes. Depending on their age, introduce them to various payment methods, including cash and mobile payments, explaining how each transaction is completed.
Charity and Gifts:
Encourage them to spend part of their money on charity or buying presents for friends, fostering a sense of generosity and community belonging.
Delayed Gratification:
Teach them the value of hard work and the benefits of saving for something they want rather than making impulse purchases.
By incorporating these money lessons into your child's routine, you can pave the way toward their financial success. Better yet, get them started with their very own savings account at the credit union!
Count those Coins!
We have our own in-lobby coin counting machine. Located in the main branch lobby, members may bring in coins and deposit them or trade them in for dollar bills at no charge once per month.
Enter our Drawing!
Download a coloring sheet, have fun coloring, and submit by April 30th to enter our drawing for a $100 Visa gift card. See full contest rules here.
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union Presents HUGS with a Check
August 1, 2023
Honolulu, Hawaii – HUGS Executive Director Amy Morton-Sogi and Development Director Alex Wereszczynskyj stopped by the Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (FCU) Main branch on King Street where they were presented with a check in the amount of $1,052.00. Last week, a team of ten staff volunteers cooked up some local favorites for co-workers in exchange for a fifteen-dollar donation. The team sold 51 plate lunches, and presented 100% of the proceeds to HUGS, yesterday afternoon.
Morton-Sogi said, “We support families with seriously ill children to provide both emotional and financial support to local families.” Monthly programs include mom’s and dad’s nights, family events and respite activities for HUGS kids and their siblings.
Quite surprised by the outpouring of love, Wereszczynskyj asked how Hawaii Central FCU chose HUGS. Employee group member Kien Bayawa explained it was a group decision. After selecting five non-profit organizations, each member of the group reviewed their missions and a general overview of their activities, and the “majority of the team voted for HUGS.”
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union Volunteers Raise Funds to Support HUGS
July 26, 2023
Honolulu, Hawaii – In an effort to raise money for the non-profit HUGS, a group of 10 volunteers with Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (FCU) took to the kitchen to cook up some local favorites for co-workers in exchange for a $15 donation. One Hundred percent of the proceeds will support the HUGS of Hawaii mission to help families with children diagnosed with life-threatening conditions like cancer, respiratory illnesses, diabetes, and stroke.
“Donations will help children and parents with respite,” said group member Kien Bayawa. “The money will also be put towards programs to help families facing an unforeseen crisis or challenge.”
The team sold 51 plates to their coworkers who chowed down on a plate lunch that included Morcon (Filipino-style Meat Loaf), BBQ Chicken, Taegu, Spring Rolls, Rice, Pancit, Mac Salad, Banana Lumpia and a drink. With only 39 employees working at Hawaii Central FCU, the team more than reached their goal of 100% participation.