Upcoming projects 2017-2018

• July 28, 2018: School Supply Drive Walmart Keeaumoku 9AM-3PM

COMPLETED PROJECTS 2017-2018

Books to Taiwan

May 15,2018

Three Waikiki Rotarians, President Steve Koyama, Taiwan Sister Club liaison Nora Chen and PP Laura Haas will take and deliver 50 children's books to the Wutan Elementary School library in Taiwan. The Metropolitan Rotary of Rotary  District 5000 was the international service partner in this Project, to renew the library.

Family Literacy Night-Waikiki Community Center

May 12, 2018

Waikiki Rotarians donated over 100 hard covered books to the preschool children at the Waikiki Community center at our annual Family Literacy Night on May 12. Rotarians provided snacks and stories to the children and their families. A great fun night for all.

Rotary Reads-Waikiki Elementary to Kindergarten

May 2, 2018

Rotarians from RC of Waikiki read to the Kindergarten classes today at Waikiki Elementary School. Thank you to our volunteers!

Kindergartners can understand more than just the plot of a story. They are able to extend their thinking and discuss why events happened and why characters acted as they did. They can also make reasonable predictions about what will happen next and relate the story events to events in their own lives. Being able to discuss stories they listen to now will help children make meaning later on when they are able to read independently. Reading aloud helps students learn how to use language to make sense of the world; it improves their information processing skills, vocabulary, and comprehension. Reading aloud targets the skills of audio learners. Research has shown that teachers who read aloud motivate students to read.

Rotarians at Work-Tree Planting and Painting @ Waikiki Elementary School

April 28, 2018

Waikiki Rotarians planted 74 (one for each club member) trees and shrubs at Waikiki Elementary School and painted railings and vertical posts for our annual Rotarians at work day. Waikiki Rotary you're AWESOME!

March for Babies-Water Station

April 21, 2018

The Rotary Club of Waikiki leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. Because when a society supports every family, we all win. When we come together, even the toughest problems can be solved. March for Babies draws thousands of people across the islands who come together to support the March of Dimes goal which is, simply put: A fighting chance for every baby. Each year, 1 in 10 babies is born premature in Hawaii. Did you know that premature birth is the #1 killer of babies? That’s why, for 80 years, the March of Dimes has fought for little ones who can’t fight for themselves. With your support, we can find the causes of prematurity and birth defects together through research, education, treatments and more. The walk started and ended at the Kapiolani Park Bandstand on the Kalakaua Avenue side of the bandstand. It goes up Monsarrat Avenue to Paki Avenue and then up to the first look out on Diamond Head Road, just after the light house where the turn around and at The Rotary Club of Waikiki’s water station. Walkers then return back to Kapiolani Park walking along Kalakaua Avenue to the finish line 

Books 4 Kids-Kapalama Elementary School

April 19, 2018

Over 600 books were given to students at Kapalama Elementary School. Always a great day when we can share the Gift of Reading to kids who may not have book at home. The Rotary Club of Waikiki's wonderful volunteers helped with this distribution by setting up over a thousand books into age groups, students than selected a book of their very own to read and to keep as a gift from the Rotary Club of Waikiki. Thank you Rotary Club of Waikiki!!!!

Rotary Reads to Kindergarteners at Waikiki Elementary School

April 4, 2018

Always a great day when we can share the gift of reading and Reading to Keiki is very important. Rotarians read to 100 students at Waikiki Elementary "K" class today. Thank you to our many volunteers. POC: Sylvia Makk

Building awareness at the St. Patrick's Day parade

March 17, 2018

Eight Rotarians and mascot Pino Morgan from the RC of Waikiki participated in the St, Patrick's day parade to share the good work of Rotary. As they walk down Kalakaua avenue they passed the message of Rotary & support to our community.

Answering the call to "What is Rotary"? An international service organization whose stated purpose is to bring together business and professional leaders in order to provide humanitarian services, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and to advance goodwill and peace around the world. It is a non-political and non-sectarian organization open to all people regardless of race, color, creed, religion, gender, or political preference. There are 34,282 member clubs worldwide, and 1.2 million individuals, known as Rotarians.

International Literacy Project

March 6, 2018

Internationally we donated 100 books to a school in India in part of a Polio National Immunization Day (NID). Books were delivered to India by PDG Ron and Sylvia Young in conjunction with NID. Thank you Waikiki Rotary! PDG Ron and Sylvia Young just returned from the Rotary NID India Polio Eradication trip.It took some 30 hours traveling between Delhi and Honolulu. Although the trip was exhausting it was well worth the experience. They were moved to see the village people bring their children to receive the polio vaccine.olio is a terrible scourge that leaves a person crippled physically and emotionally for life.There were 7 cases of polio reported so far this year (when there use to be 100,000's).  We are "this close" to eradicating polio from the world. Sylvia and Ron are glad to be part of the effort.  Administering the vaccine to the children will be a memorable experience they will not forget. They donated the Books that the Rotary Club of Waikiki to students and to their school library and also visited wonderful projects sponsored by the India Rotarians. Thank you Waikiki Rotary!!!

Hawaii Tohoku Rainbow-Garage sale to support Fukushima Earthquake and Tsunami

March 3, 2018

Rotarians at work with big smiles at a special garage sale to raise money for children affected by the Fukushima earthquake and tsunami. Funds go to Hawaii Tohoku Rainbow. Over $1,000.00 was donated towards this special garage sale. Thank you to the many volunteers who assisted on this project. Thank you for your generous supports for us. We always keep thinking that "Love = Action", and we really think that it was "Love = Action" by these Rotarians:  Mr. Roy King, Mrs. Gloria King, Mr. Joe Gedeon, Ms. Kathy Higa, Mr. Steven Morgan, Ms. Nora Chen, Ms. Sylvia Makk and Ms. Ikko Tomita. They allowed us to donate $1,000 to 'Rainbow for Japan Kids'. We would like to express sincere appreciation to them.  We would like to inform you that the donation check has been given from us to the chair of Rainbow for Japan Kids, Mr. Ryoichi Okubo (HISLEA)

Thank you very much!
James Matsumoto & Chako Setoyama

Annual Garage Sale-Proceeds to Waikiki Elementary School

February 24, 2018

Our annual garage sale held on February 24th, 2018 at the Waikiki Elementary School. was a HUGE success raising over $2,200.00 in cash and the items left was donated to the Cystic Fibrosis.
The money allows kids to participate in field trips and buys items for the school. This is a really big deal to the school and they are always very grateful for the Waikiki Rotary's help.

Waikiki Reads to Waikiki Elementary Kindergarten students

February 7, 2018

Dictionary Project- Kalihi Kai

February 7, 2018

Books 4 Kids-Puuhale Elementary School 

January 29, 2018

It's always a great day when we can give books to students and inspire the love of reading! RC of Waikiki delivered over 300 books to the students at Puuhale Elementary School. Thank you to our volunteers!

Student Exchange-Japan

January 24, 2018

Dictionary Project-Kalihi Waena

January 11, 2018

Do you remember the first book you loved as a child? It probably wasn't the dictionary. But these dictionaries are different -- they have photos and graphs, and are more like an encyclopedia. President Steve and Chair Ron with the Rotary Club of Waikiki gave a dictionary to all third graders at Kalihi Waena Elementary School today.

A dictionary is perhaps the first and most powerful reference tool that a child should own. Its usefulness goes beyond the spellings, pronunciations, and definitions it lists; it is a companion for solving problems that arise as a child develops his or her reading, writing, and creative thinking abilities. Students benefit from an increased self-reliance and resourcefulness inspired by the maxim "look it up". Teachers benefit by knowing that their students have consistent access to a tool for homework and in-class explorations. We emphasize the importance of using a dictionary to make sure that all words are spelled correctly.

The program is an opportunity for children to expand their vocabulary and for many to actually own a dictionary. A strong vocabulary is an essential tool for gaining knowledge. The limits of an individual's language are the limits of his world. A large vocabulary does not guarantee success but a small vocabulary limits the use that a person can make of his or her natural abilities. Low vocabulary decreases the effectiveness of inborn gifts in any civilization

Toys and Books 4 Tots

December 23, 2017

Thank you Waikiki Rotarians and friends for your generosity this Christmas by providing hundreds of toys which was given to different agencies for children in need this holiday season.

Books were also delivered to Honolulu Community Action Program, Inc. (HCAP).

Kahauiki Transitional Housing

December 23, 2017

Dear Oahu Rotarians,

DG Nalani would like to send a "Mahalo Plenty" message for the outpouring of generosity to provide household items to the homeless families that are moving in to the permanent homes at Kahauiki Village. With every one of the 26 clubs on Oahu participating in this project, Rotary District 5000 is providing pots, pans, toothbrushes, hairdryers, shower curtains, baby bottles and much more to each family moving in this first phase of the project.

Here is a message from the Village contractor:  "Seen couple moms carrying their babies last Sunday through the site. They’re said they are very excited and couldn’t wait to move in.  As they walked in (to a 1 bedroom unit), they were so happy—tears flowed. They kept saying “this is a real house” and "we’re so blessed”. They also asked me to pass this on: THANK YOU VERY, VERY MUCH----MERRY CHRISTMAS!"

This amazing project is being put together by many, many volunteers from organizations, the military, construction workers, caring individuals, but Rotary D5000 and friends have been credited for really stepping up with manpower to paint, clean and provide a lot of the household items. Kudos to Kirk Hovious (Honolulu Club) for tirelessly coordinating the volunteer efforts to get the units ready.

BUT, there is more to be done.  If you, your friends, your co-workers are able to help, there is a need for about 50 volunteers each on Saturday, Dec 30 and Jan 6, from 9am to noon, to help move things into the units and maybe to install carpet tiles. The first group of families, selected by IHS, is scheduled to move in on January 12th.

To sign up to help, click here --->  VOLUNTEER registration. If you were planning to help on Wednesday to sort linen at 1pm, call Naomi at 492-0126 because someone donated boxes of sheets and the Wed delivery may not be needed. We won't know until Tuesday. Information about the project can be found at their website: kahauiki.org. If you want information about volunteering, call Kirk at 330-1339.

On behalf of DG Nalani and the District Homelessness Task Force, THANK YOU to all of the Oahu Clubs and volunteers! Merry Christmas!

December 13, 2017

In support to the Homelessness Project at Kahauiki Village Transitional Housing on Oahu, where fellow Rotarians in collaboration with other organizations are donating their time, talent and resources by painting and cleaning these housing units. The Rotary Club of Waikiki is actively painting the units with the help of President Steve Koyama and PE Stephen Morgan. RC of Waikiki also wrapped and filled 30 "Welcome Home" shoe boxes filled with some essential items for the homeless tenants.

We are also working on supplying a unit with needed household products and supplies.  A Random Act Aloha that will make such a big difference for many families this holiday season. For more information: http://www.kahauiki.org/

Shoe Boxes 4 Seniors and Homeless

December 12, 2017

Over 130 Shoe boxes were Christmas wrapped and stuffed today at the Waikiki Community Center. Thank you to all the many volunteers from the Rotary Club of Waikiki, Waikiki Community Center and the Aston Waikiki Hotel.

Thank you to all the generous donations of items to fill the boxes. Boxes were delivered to Seniors and Homeless Seniors for a better Christmas. Did you know sometimes Seniors are forgotten during the holidays and this is a special gift to say we're thinking of you and we hope you have a Merry Christmas. Chair: Kathryn Henski.

Books 4 Tripler Fisher House

December 11, 2017

Patti Mitchell wrapped and delivered books for the kids at Tripler Fisher House. Throughout the years books are donated to the children staying at Fisher House.

Books 4 Kids-Navy Hale Keiki School

December 7, 2017

Over 200 new hard-covered books were given to all students at Navy Hale Keiki in support of our military families. Always a great day when we can share the gift of books and reading. Thank you RC of Waikiki!

Dictionaries to Navy Hale Keiki School

December 6, 2017

Rotarian Patti Mitchell presented all 3rd graders a new dictionary for them to take home and use forever. Thank you Rotary Club of Waikiki for a great alearning tool!

Books 4 Kids-Kuhio Elementary School

December 4, 2017

Great day when we can share the gifts of Books! Over 300 books given to all students at Kuhio ES. As an added Bonus Wally Amos read to the kindergarten students...YAY! Thank you to our volunteers!

Books 4 Kids and Reading at Waikiki Elementary School — Over 600 Books!

November 28, 2017

The Rotary Club of Waikiki distributed over 600 books to the students at Waikiki Elementary School today. Our volunteers unpacked and sorted out over 1000 books for the students to select the perfect book that they wanted to keep and take home with them to read in their leisure. The Rotary Club of Waikiki believes very strongly that literacy and reading is one of the most important elements in a child's growth and instilling the love of reading at a young age will make more kids better readers and increase test scores and their outlook will be more successful. We also had as an extra added BONUS today with Wally Amos aka Famous Amos or Doctor Cookie reading to the second graders....Oh what a Fantabulous Day for all.

Our Awesome volunteers were: Lisa Ahmed, Ikko Tomita, Patti Mitchell, Patti Look, Kathryn Henski, Jacob Henski, Robin Henski, Nora Chen, Kyle Detke, Phil Sammer, Steve Koyama, Charod Dodd, Clyde Min, Wally Amos, Bob Tellender and Gloria King

Thanksgiving Lunch-Salvation Army

November 23, 2017

Very humbling to serve the needy a well deserved Thanksgiving lunch organized by the Salvation Army today. Nine members of Waikiki Rotary volunteered with hundreds of other volunteers from different organizations. It truly was a joy to watch the guests smile from ear to ear as you placed the tray of food in front of them. Happy Thanksgiving.

Annual Thanksgiving lunch with Seniors

November 22, 2017

In support of our Kapuna, the RC of Waikiki invited Seniors from the Waikiki Community Center to enjoy Thanksgiving lunch with our Rotarians. Lunch was great! Thank you to our Director/Chair Kathryn Henski for setting this up for our seniors.

Dictionary Project-Waikiki Elementary School

November 22, 2017

Holiday Homelessness Project-D5000 Project

November 18-December 31

We have Rotarians at work on real solutions to our state’s huge challenge with homelessness.  Kahauiki Village is an inspiring new community that D5000 is helping with and we will be getting families off the streets by the end of the year.

 Stephen Morgan spray painting units

D5000 Ride so they can Walk-Bike Ride

November 11 – 18, 2017

Waikiki Rotary reads to "K" students at Waikiki Elementary

November 1, 2017

Monthly reading to Waikiki Elementary School "K" classrooms.

Thank you to our volunteers A-1 Bob Tellander, A-2 Carol Riley, A-3 Gale Warshawsky, A-4 Patti Mitchell

POC: Sylvia Makk | email: sylvia@makkart.com

International Global Grants

2017-2018

The Rotary Club of Waikiki is contributing to two Global Grants for year 2017-18.

1. Global Grant GG1743935:  Teacher Training Yangon, Myanmar
   Lead club: Rotary Clubs of Metropolitan Honolulu and Yangon
   Area of Focus: Basic Education and Literacy
   This project was initiated in 2016-17 as District Governor, Clint Schroeder's Centennial Project. Waikiki Club members Steve Morgan PE and Adrienne King, with 32 other Hawai'i Rotarians, traveled to Myanmar in February, 2017. They met with head monks at 3 schools in Yangon area, and spent time with teachers and excited students getting to know their needs and capabilities. This was the first time Waikiki Rotarians traveled overseas to investigate and support a Global Grant Project.  As a result of the trip, and Steve Morgan's excellent slideshow report of the experience to the Club, Waikiki Rotary is enthusiastic about this grant and hopes to continue support for educational initiatives in Myanmar.
   The Budget is $35,000. Waikiki Rotary contributed $ 1,726.42.
2. Global Grant GG1861825:  Awareness, Prevention and Treatment of Disease, Thailand
   Lead club: Rotary Clubs of Honolulu Sunrise and Silom
   Area of Focus: Disease Prevention and Treatment
   Waikiki continues its support of previous successful GGs with RC Honolulu Sunrise and allied clubs in Hawaii and Japan (Niigata prefecture) to enhance rural communities’ health infrastructure by bringing more life-saving medical equipment to rural Thai public hospitals. The emphasis is on hemodialysis machines which extend lives of patients in kidney failure.
   Budget is $135,000. Waikiki Rotary contributed $,1000.

Waikiki Community Center’s Annual Wellness Fair

October 7, 2017

Aloha Steve, When I look at the after Faire review, I sit in great appreciation for the Rotarians and Justin’s friends who gave us so much support. It was such a great contribution to our event.  I received so many comments about how everything was so well organized and displayed and how much attendees appreciated having the time to visit all the exhibitors tables without feeling overwhelmed. Your contributions were without a doubt significant. With appreciation, Merle and directors of programs, Waikiki Community Center.

Waikiki Reads at Waikiki Elementary School

October 4, 2017

Stories have the power to give children “windows and mirrors” -- the ability to see themselves reflected in what they read and read aloud. Children are like sponges and appreciate the diversity around them.  Waikiki Reads is a monthly reading program to Waikiki Elementary School "K" classrooms. Thank you to our volunteers for their dedication and amazing storytelling: A-1 Bob Tellander, A-2 Carol Riley, A-3 Lisa Ahmed, A-4 Cindy Lewellen Tagavilla POC: Sylvia Makk sylvia@makkart.com

Youth Day at the State Capitol

October 1, 2017

This is an opportunity for many of Hawaii's organizations focusing on youth to showcase their services. From Pre-Natal to Teens, Children and Youth Day event has Zones targeted for each age bracket to help the 40,000+ attendees learn about educational and family oriented programs available to them. Kama‘aina Kids is proud to be a part of this extraordinary event and look forward to serving the keiki, families and communities we live in.
Ray Sanborn, Event Administrator, Children & Youth Day

Reading to students @ Kapalama Elementary School

September 29, 2017

Make friends with a Book. Read Aloud 2017 at Kapalama Elementary School. Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Waikiki was on hand to read to the students. 

Waikiki Rotary donated $2,000 to Waikiki Elementary School

September 27, 2017

President Elect Stephen Morgan and Community Service Chair Kathryn Henski presented a check of $2,000 to Principal Bonnie Tabor and Dotty of Waikiki Elementary School. Proceeds from our Annual Garage Sale.

Fisher House 8K Hero & Remembrance Run, Walk or Roll 2017

September 9, 2017

Pacific Aviation Museum on Ford Island.  This event was created to raise awareness about the mission of the Fisher House here in Hawaii. We are here to provide comfort homes to our Service Members and their Families during a medical crisis. This is our 6th year honoring our Fallen Service Members by creating an event that would bring back the names and faces of all Service Members who lost their lives in combat since 9/11.
POC: Patti Mitchell

Waikiki Readers - Waikiki Elementary School

September 6, 2017

Thank you to our Rotary Club volunteers A-1 Bob Tellander, A-2 Carol Riley, A-3 Clyde Min, A-4 Cindy Lewellen Tagavilla. Your enthusiasm in reading to keiki in kindergarten took flight to new heights and adventures. Reading books aloud to children stimulates their imagination and expands their understanding of the world. It helps them develop language and listening skills and prepares them to understand the written word. Even after children learn to read by themselves, it's still important for you to read aloud together.

Service to the Marco Polo residents

August 12, 2017

Rotarians from the RC of Waikiki along with other Rotarians from D5000 provided a fun day of food, games and fellowship with the Marco Polo residents after their devastating fire on July 14, 2017.

School supplies delivered!

August 3, 2017

Get Set, Get Ready, it's time for School and School Supplies!!! The Rotary Club of Waikiki with the generous support and donations from Wal-Mart Shoppers and Special Angels we were able to deliver Backpacks and assorted School Supplies to (8) Various Schools on Oahu: Waikiki, Kuhio, Kapalama, Likelike, Lanakila, Kalihi Kai, Kalihi Waena, Puuhale and to the Surfrider Spirits Foundation for their spirit sessions. Thank you all for your help and special Mahalo to our Chair Kathryn Henski.

School Supply Drive @ Wal-Mart

July 22, 2017

SUCCESS! What a GREAT day to have a School Supply Drive to help Children in Need for a better Education. The Rotary Club of Waikiki was in full force at Wal-Mart Keeaumoku to help collect school supplies for children in need. We want to sincerely thank the Amazing GENEROUS Wal-Mart Shoppers who made this project a HUGE success. We have never seen so many contribute from their hearts to give to this wonderful project. We also have to Thank our WONDERFUL Volunteers, without our volunteers and our Energetic project chair Kathryn Henski we could not have accomplished this extraordinary task. We collected 3 SUV full of supplies and over $1300.00 in cash. School Supplies will be given to Homeless Shelters, YO House and Title 1 School on Oahu.

2016-2017 Global grants

Waikiki will be doing three global grants at $1,000 each — our $1,000 in club funds becomes $3,500 in the matching program!

1. GG # 1744876 RC of Honolulu Sunrise Kidney Dialysis in Thailand (Pending)
2. GG # 1642410 RC of Ala Moana saving lives of newborns in Thailand (Approved)
3. School for the Deaf and Blind in Lebanon (Approved)

RC of Waikiki presents a College Scholarship

June 7, 2017

President Joseph Gedeon on behalf of the Rotary Club of Waikiki presented Kacey Wong, our scholarship recipient with a check for $1000. Kacey is a senior at Sacred Heart Academy and will be going to the University of Portland. Kacey Wong, Sacred Hearts Academy, A fierce competitor on the soccer field, Kacey sustained a series of concussions that eventually sidelined her. Though the injury affected her ability to walk, do school work, and play contact sports, she was able to transfer her passion to another field—helping others. Initially a patient at Fysiotherapie Hawaii, Kacey began volunteering to help those in situations similar to hers while remaining close to her athletic interests. Kacey credits her mother with teaching her the importance of perseverance and never giving up on her dreams. This fall, she’ll follow those dreams and enroll at Concordia University-Portland to study biology with a premedicine track.

Family Literacy Night - Waikiki Community Center Preschool

May 12, 2017

Rotary Club of Waikiki Volunteers were Gale Warshawsky, Nora Chen and PE Steve Koyama each reading to the students at Waikiki Community Center Preschool for Family Literacy Night 2017. The students and their parents enjoyed a fruit snack to begin this activity. Then Gale sang with the students and then read a book (whole group activity). Then they split into 3 reading groups. Steve, Nora, and Gale each read to small groups of students and their parents at this school. The Literacy Night ended with students taking turns selecting a new book to take home with them. All from the Rotary Club of Waikiki. This was our 7th year to do this activity at this school.

Books 4 KIDS-Kapalama Elementary School

May 9, 2017

Always a GREAT Day when you can give books to KIDS! The Rotary Club of Waikiki gave over 600 students a book to take home and keep. This is a Signature Project of Waikiki Rotary with over 4,000 books donated during this school year alone to various schools throughout Oahu. Thank you!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO

Waikiki Reads to Waikiki Elementary

May 3, 2017

Rotary Club of Waikiki Volunteers read to Kindergarten students today at Waikiki Elementary School as a school year long project.

Thank you!

Aung Myay Thukha Monastic School in Yangon, Myanmar - Toilets, septic tank and hand washing stations for students

April-May 2017

Construction of the new toilet block and hand washing stations has started at Aung Myay Thukha monastic school in Yangon. Students are obviously excited and helping. We are all excited and proud that we are making a positive impact at the school. The work has started to build 10 new toilets, replacing the entire septic system and providing 1-2 hand washing stations, and trough/basin with 3 or 4 spigots! Amazing! Mahalo to our club team members: Adrienne King and Stephen Morgan!

Books 4 Kids- April is the month of the Military Child @ Navy Hale Keiki School

April 26, 2017

The Rotary Club of Waikiki donated over 200 books to the students at Navy Hale Keiki School in honor of our military children in Hawaii. Military children are remarkable examples of resilience, strength and flexibility. They pack up their books and clothes and say goodbye to friends every couple of years. They help manage the home front while a parent is deployed. They exercise courage at school, at home and in the wider military community. April marks the national observance of the Month of the Military Child, when the Department of Defense and service members across the country honor military children and youth for their sacrifice in supporting their families and their country. During this month, we celebrate their fortitude and generosity, remembering their important place in the military community. POC: Gloria King email: glory.king@aol.com

March for Babies-RC of Waikiki Water Station-Rotarians at Work at Diamond Head

April 22, 2017

The Rotary Club of Waikiki sponsored a water station with the help of Menehune Water company at the Diamond Head Lookout today. Why do we support the Walk for Babies? Because every  baby deserves a fighting chance.

The money raised today is a lifeline for babies in the NICU, connecting them with the critical treatments and care they need. Our community helps moms at every stage, from preconception to annual family walk day. The research you fund will help every mom and every baby for generations to come.

Rotary Readers at Waikiki Elementary School

April 5, 2017

Rotary Club of Waikiki reads to the Kindergarten classes at Waikiki Elementary monthly. Reading and writing is the Key to Success in school and beyond and it's always great fun reading to the students in kindergarten. They are like little sponges and they will learn so quickly whatever they are taught. Read early and read often. The early years are critical to developing a lifelong love of reading. It's never too early to begin reading to your child! POC: Sylvia Makk Email: sylvia@makkart.com

Books 4 Kids-Kuhio Elementary School

March 31, 2017

The Rotary Club of Waikiki distributed over 300 books to the students at Kuhio Elementary School on Friday March 31. Putting books in the hands of kids who really them is the goal of the Rotary Club of Waikiki. Our volunteers unpacked and sorted over 600 books by age groups in the cafeteria. The students were able to select the perfect book that they wanted to take home, read and share. The Rotary Club of Waikiki believes very strongly that literacy and reading is one of the most important elements in a child's growth and instilling the love of reading at a young age will make more kids better readers and increase test scores and their outlook will be more successful. We would like to thank First Book for their generous support of providing these books at a reasonable cost to us so we can deliver to those kids that are in need in Hawaii. Also thank you to our many volunteers for your support and dedication on making this project a great success! Mahalo.

Waikiki Rotary Presents Books At Fisher House

March 24, 2017

Rotarian Patti Mitchell delivered books to Fisher House and shared the gift of reading to Fisher House residents from Japan. This military family is in Hawaii to get medical treatment for their baby boy. He and his big sister love their books! Patti volunteers at Fisher House every Tuesday to help give assistance and support to families while they are here for medical help. Thank you Patti!

Books 4 Kids-Likelike Elementary School

March 17, 2017

Always a great day when we can give books to children. Nearly 500 books were donated to the students at Likelike Elementary school on Friday, March 17. The Rotary Club of Waikiki are strong supporters of literacy programs and giving the Gift of Reading through new books is just one of many projects that we share in our community. Thank you to our faithful volunteers on helping on this great project.

Dictionary Project-Navy Hale Keiki School

March 13, 2017

Rotarian Patti Mitchell presented dictionaries to the third graders at Navy Hale Keiki School. Everyone enjoyed their dictionaries and will use them daily.

The Dictionary Project-Report

Various dates

Rotary Readers-Waikiki Elementary School

March 1, 2017

Always a great day to share a story to students. Monthly Waikiki Rotarians reads to Kindergarten students at Waikiki Elementary School. Thank you to our wonderful readers.

Celebrating Dr Seuss's 113th Birthday-Various Schools

February 29-March 4, 2017

Waikiki Rotary members participated in reading to first graders in nineteen elementary school classrooms in and around the Honolulu area. In honor of Dr. Seuss' 113 birthday and in partnership with Rotary d5000 and the Department of Education, Governor and Mrs. Ige.

Thank you to our volunteers: Nora Chin, Joe Gedeon, Rhodora Pagay, Fay Zusada, Kathern Henski, Ron Sauder, Phil Sammer, Cindy Leuellen Tagarilla Gene Grounds and Patti Mitchell participated. Our newest members to be, Marilyn Liben and Lisa Ahmed volunteered as well. Katheryn Henski’s daughter, Robin and Cindy Leuellen Tagarilla’s daughter, Laneika were on board in the fun. POC: Patti Mitchell

The students and staff alike were very appreciative and welcoming.  We were greeted with leis and lots of smiles and enthusiasm.

We look forward to joining in the celebration in 2018.

Schools: Kapalama ES, Likelike ES, Kuhio ES, Lanakila ES, Waldorf, Kalihi Kai ES

Annual Rotary Club of Waikiki Garage Sale

February 25, 2017

The Annual Rotary Club of Waikiki Garage sale was a SUCCESS!!!! All proceeds to benefit Waikiki Elementary and they are $2,000.00 Richer! Thank you to all of our Volunteers and Donors. Mahalo Nui Loa Waikiki Rotary

District Global Grant-Rotary Serving Humanity!

February 8-24, 2017

District 5000 and the Rotary Club of Waikiki funded two educational/ literacy trips with partners in Taiwan and in Myanmar. The trip was a hands-on service, a few days in each country. Direct and immediate positive impact on people in the communities. Waikiki Rotary Participants: Adrienne King, Stephen Morgan and Flora Lu.

Rotary Readers at Waikiki Elementary School

February 1, 2017

Waikiki Rotarians read to the kindergarten classes at Waikiki Elementary school today. Thank you to our volunteers.

Dictionary Project

February 2017

Dictionaries were presented to all third grade students at Puuhale Elementary School on February 1, Kuhio Elementary School on February 8 and Kalihi Waena Elementary Scool on February 15, 2017, POC: Ron Sauder email: ronlsauder@gmail.com

Toys & Books 4 Tots

December 21, 2016

Rotarians, Family and Friends joined together for our last meeting of the year 2016. Lots of Fun, Good Cheer and Generosity in support of the Annual Toys (and Books) for Tots drive by the Marine Corps. Over 500 toys and books were donated in the spirit of Christmas and over $560.00 Cash all for the Toys for Tots Program! Just Amazing!!! Thank you Waikiki Rotarians, Family and Friends for your enormous generosity for children in need this Holiday Season!

Dictionary Project-Kalihi Kai Elementary

December 14, 2016

Dictionaries delivered to over 100 students at Kalihi Kai Elementary!

Angel Tree Christmas-First Step Kakaako Homeless Shelter

December 9, 2016

Rotarian Richard Fikani spearheaded the Angel Tree Project at the Next Step Shelter. Santa Claus (Richard and his elfs) provided the children presents. Dinner was served to 250 residents. Later all enjoyed a Christmas movie. Volunteers served food, bought presents and donated money. The community event is a partnership of community and faith based organizations that work together to provide a memorable event for the children and families of the Next Step Shelter. The event is named Angel Tree Christmas at the Next Step Shelter.

Richard Fikane and Community Service Chair Stephen loaded Richard's car with New hard-covered books for the children at First Step-Kakaako Homeless Shelter.

Dictionary Project-Waldorf School

December 7, 2016

Dictionaries delivered

Stream Cleaning and Planting-Kahalu'u Stream Remediation Project

November 5, 2017 through December 2, 2016

Rotarian Jay Ogden spearheaded the Kahalu’u Stream Remediation Project over the next five Saturdays (5 Nov.-2 Dec.). The project largely volunteer based consisted of clearing the stream land from invasive plants and getting it ready for tapioca planting. Crops will be shared among the needy and open the stream to fish & water foul.

Dictionary Project-Waikiki Elementary School

November 30, 2016

Rotarians Ron, Carol, Nora, Steve and Stephen presented dictionaries to the 3rd grade students today at Waikiki Elementary School. Over 100 students met in the cafeteria and learned how to use a dictionary and where to find the most interesting facts about the world we live in. Great JOB! Great Project!

Salvation Army-Thanksgiving Day 2016

November 24, 2016

The Rotary Club of Waikiki Rotarians and Family helped at the Salvation Army's Annual Thanksgiving lunch for the homeless and those in need. It was a great opportunity to help place a Thanksgiving meal in front of the special guests. 2,000 homeless were fed today in the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. Many were elderly, many were there with their children, many looked like you and me. Be grateful and thankful for all you have, including your Thanksgiving dinner that we all take for granted. Enjoy and God bless.

Keiki Vision & Books 4 Kids- Boys & Girls club-Ewa

October 29, 2016

The Rotary Club of Waikiki participated at the West Oahu Family Fun Day at the Boys and Girls Club in Ewa. We were there to Provide Keiki Vision Screening to all kids who attended. And Books were given to the kids after their screening. It was a fun day for the whole family!

Rotary’s Connecting for Good Tour is a goodwill road trip starting October 29, 2016 in Honolulu, Hawaii and ending November 11, 2016 in Santa Barbara, California! This tour will feature a team of Rotarains and Rotaractors touring from city to city in an RV. In each city, Rotarians with other community service organizations will host a community service project to showcase the great work that Rotary does in the community. This is the largest goodwill tour on the West Coast of the US, and it will travel through 6 states and 14 cities. In each city, Rotarians with other community service organizations will host a community service project to showcase the great work that Rotary does in the community. The finale of the tour will be on November 11 in Santa Barbara at our Rotary Zone Institute in collaboration with 4 Boys and Girls Clubs. To get more information about the event, check out the website at zone2526.org/tour. We hope you will follow us on the tour, and if the tour stops in your city, come out and see us!

Great Pumpkin Patch @ Holy Nativity School

October 19, 2016

Holy Nativity School hosted The Great Pumpkin Festival, to celebrate the coming of Halloween on Saturday, October 19th from 11am to 4pm on the grounds of Holy Nativity School.

The event featured the largest pumpkin 'patch' in East Honolulu with over 2,000 pumpkins in various sizes, locally grown by Aloun Farms. The festival had a Keiki Fun Zone, arts and crafts, activities and games, as well as a Country Store with 25 vendors selling products just in time for the holidays. There was food and beverage booths, costume contest for kids, corn husking, pumpkin carving and live entertainment. And the Rotary Club of Waikiki President, Joseph Gedeon and Community Service Director, Stephen Morgan were there to help with the pumpkins.

Project C.L.E.A.N. Partnership with HPD & Waikiki Rotary

October 15, 2016

The Honolulu Police Department District 6’s Community Policing Team in partnership with Going Green and the Waikiki Rotary Club will be participating in a Project C.L.E.A.N. event on Saturday, October 15.2016. Going Green will be collecting recyclable waste, such as computer related items, printer cartridges, old propane tanks, cellular telephones, and all types of batteries, will be accepted for disposal. In addition, the collaborative partnership is accepting donations of canned goods, pet food, eye glasses, hearing aids and gently worn clothes. The Officers with also be partnering with the Waikiki Rotary Club to paint over graffiti within the restroom of the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor.

The event will be held at the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor located at 1651 Ala Moana Blvd from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM.  This event is open to the community.

Children & Youth Day

October 2, 2016

Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Waikiki participated at the 23rd Annual Event of Children & Youth Day on Sunday October 2, 2016. WRC managed the Information Booth from 10:00am-3:00pm! It was a great FUN day to recognize the potential and special gifts of our keiki (children) and ‘opio (youth). It is a time for them to shine and share their bountiful energy with their community.

Books 4 Kids - Waikiki Elementary School

September 23, 2016

Another GREAT day sharing the Gift of Reading!

Over 600 students at Waikiki Elementary school received a book today at Waikiki Elementary School. The students were able to browse over a 1000 books and make a selection of the one book they wanted to keep and take home. Thank you to our many volunteers from the Rotary Club of Waikiki and 3 students from Mid Pacific International College for coming early to set up all the books in the cafeteria and stay and help the students with their selections. The Rotary Club of Waikiki are strong supporters of literacy projects and this particular signature project is just one of the many projects we do in our community and the world. Rotary No Ka Oi!

Books 4 Kids - Jefferson Elementary School

September 16, 2016

It's always a GREAT day when we can share the Gift of READING! Today the Rotary Club of Waikiki and our many volunteers including students from the Mid Pacific International College set up over a thousand books for the students of Jefferson Elementary school to browse and select a book for them to call their very own.

Literacy is important for today’s learners, it promotes problem solving approaches and thinking skills – asking questions and seeking answers, finding information, forming opinions, evaluating sources and making decisions fostering successful learners, effective contributors, confident individuals and responsible citizens. The Rotary Club of Waikiki are strong supporters of literacy in our community. Mahalo!

Thank you letter from Jefferson School:

On behalf of Jefferson Elementary School I would like to say thank you to the Rotary Club of Waikiki for your generous donation of over 400 books to our students.  We were amazed at how organized and efficient your TEAM (Together Everyone Achieves More) was.  The look on the faces of our students when they found a book was truly priceless.  Thank you for making a positive difference in the lives of our students.  Both you and the Rotary Club of Waikiki are appreciated!
---
Garret Zakahi, President
Thomas Jefferson Elementary School Principal

Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much - Helen Keller

Books 4 Newborn Babies-Tripler Hospital

September 12, 2016

Boxes of Sesame Street board books were delivered today to Tripler Medical Center for all newborn babies. The prefect board book with bright pictures and a great collection of rhymes that can be played with babies. Pat-a-Cake, This Little Piggy, My Hands upon My Head, and other baby games with Elmo and his Baby friends. Thank you to the Rotary Club of Waikiki for another great project encouraging reading at a young age.

School supplies & backpacks delivered

August 2016

School Supplies and over 190 filled backpacks were delivered the first week of August to various public schools (Likelike, Lanakila, Lanakila headstart, Kapalama, Kapalama headstart, Kuhio, Kuhio headstart and Waikiki Elementary Schools) and agencies serving those in need (Next Step Shelter-Kakaako, IHS & YO House).

It all started at Walmart-Keeaumoku where generous Walmart shoppers donated enough school supplies to fill 3 SUVs to full capacity and a collection of over $2,000.00 which was used to purchase backpacks and other supplies.

The next step was to sort and fill the backpacks at the King's house with a packing party to fill more than 190 packs.

Whew! with that task over President Joe Gedeon, Community Service Director Stephen Morgan, PDG Roy King and PP Gloria King set out to deliver the much needed school supplies and backpacks to children in need.

Thank you Waikiki Rotarians for your time and energy in making a difference in the lives of children in Hawaii! Another SUCCESS!

Waikiki Rotary-Thai Hemodialysis Machine Global Grant

Thank you to the RC Waikiki for participating in the Thai Global Grant (GG1635519) for the 2015-2016 cycle. Your club's help made it happen.

The following equipment was installed in rural hospitals in North-East Thailand, bringing life saving equipment closer to where patients live:

• 7 hemodialysis machines
• 2 vital sign monitors
• 2 cardiac defibrillators, and
• 1 ultrasound/fetal monitor.

I could visit some hospitals and see for myself that the machines were put to good use, and that staff and community education was in place.

Would you please consider to participate again this coming year? The need for more machines in more provincial hospitals is overwhelming. For example, each year in Thailand 10,000 new patients reach end stage kidney disease and need hemodialysis to survive; therefore, treatment capacity remains tenuous.

School Supply Drive @ WalMart Keeaumoku

July 30, 2016

What a Successful day for the Keiki in Hawaii!!! Waikiki Rotarians and the Boy Scouts of America arrived with one main goal in mind. Collect school supplies for Keiki in need today at the WalMart store Keeaumoku. It's just amazing the generosity of the shoppers today. We were able to collect enough school supplies to fill to capacity 3 SUVs and collected over $2,000.00 in cash (From donations from Wal-Mart Shoppers, A very special angel who gave a donation of $500.00 and from our own club members). MAHALO to our generous Walmart shoppers and donors and to Waikiki Rotarians and the Boys Scouts Troop #33. School Supplies will be donated to various Schools and Homeless Shelters on Oahu. A generous donor wrote a check for $500.00 for our school supply drive. We were able to purchased over 190 Backpacks. Thank you! Community Service Chair Stephen Morgan said "We are proud to provide the tools to succeed in school for students from low income and for those in need". The next step is to pack up and deliver to schools and homeless shelters!

A message from Hawaii Literacy-Cooling the Bookmobile

Cooling the Bookmobile Hawaii Literacy’s Bookmobile operates on the Leeward Coast of Oahu, traveling every week to 14 sites including homeless shelters and public housing. The Bookmobile offers children and adults free access to high quality books, e-readers, and homework and reading help to support the development of literacy skills and future educational success in some of the most disadvantaged communities in our State. In 2015, the Bookmobile also began a successful Peer Tutoring Program, training older children to teach younger children how to read. The Bookmobile is a popular and heavily utilized program, with dozens of children visiting each site every day.

However, last summer, during the months of record-setting temperatures, it became very evident that there was an enormous need for more efficient and safe methods of cooling the interior and immediate exterior of the Bookmobile. The AC could not keep the interior cool with so many children and adults coming in and out, and at the 6 sites without electricity, the AC in the driver’s area was not even an option. Like any car, the inside temperature can rapidly exceed the outside temperature, but despite the unbearable heat, children continued to come to get books and read.

And now, thanks to Thomas Hall and the Rotary Club of Waikiki, the children, families, and staff that utilize the Bookmobile can enjoy the breeze provided by two new solar-powered fans! Rotary Club members Thomas, Jay, Joe, and Steve modernized the Bookmobile by installing solar panels on the top and creating wiring and electrical systems that provide power even when off-grid. Now, the Bookmobile can continue to be a safe and cool space no matter where it travels. By refitting the Bookmobile to access renewable solar energy, Thomas, the Rotary Club, and the incredible Rotary volunteers have indelibly changed the way the Bookmobile operates and the experience of anyone who steps aboard. We are profoundly grateful for the technical, financial, and other support that was provided, and could not have finished this project without you! Mahalo for making such an impact!

Solar panel installation on family literacy bookmobile

July 1, 2016

Rotarian Thomas Hall attended the D5000 District Assembly on April 23, 2016 at Momilani elementary school along with several other members of Waikiki Rotary. This was Thomas' first district assembly and he eagerly participated in all sessions and to hear what all the presenters shared. He was really interested to hear from the Hawaii Literacy Foundation and thought to himself, "How can I and the RC of Waikiki Help?" Thomas met with the Executive Director Suzanne Skjold and this project was born.  Ms. Skjold requested some re-fit projects to their 6-year-old Bookmobile, including Solar Powered Electric Fans and shelving repairs. Thomas heard the calling, and just happens to be a Solar Power expert! Thomas met with his club's board and asked for funding to do this project, parts at cost and no labor cost. Thomas received overwhelming approval.

On July 1^st, Thomas arranged a group from the Rotary Club of Waikiki to install the solar powered fans and storage. Thomas also recruited his friend Jim Miller a retired Navy sub-mariner to help repair some broken book shelving several weeks before the solar installation. The solar powered fans cools down the Bookmobile and allows a more pleasant environment for Keiki and adults when the Bookmobile is parked at one of the 14 sites they visit each week on the leeward coast, which include homeless shelters, and public housing in some of the most disadvantaged communities in the state.

Thank you to the Rotary Club of Waikiki and the Rotarians who donated their time and energy to install the solar panel on the top of the Bookmobile. They were Thomas Hall, Jay Ogden, Steve Morgan and Club President Joe Gedeon.

Books were also donated to the Bookmobile for distribution to kids in need. Congratulations to Rotary in Hawaii for helping a community and those in need.