Our Veterans and Active Duty Military Friends Keep On Giving
Through the years we’ve been blessed to have on our Ohana Team, a special group of men and women from all branches of our military, continues to go above and beyond to help and finds time to read to kids in our community. Mahalo for your sacrifice and your service! GO! READ
2021 The Giving Continues
The giving continued throughout 2021.
HAWAII: Our volunteers stayed connected and read to over 100 children virtually and coordinated book distributions on Oahu and Molokai. They also reached a broader audience around the world, reading stories for our YouTube Channel O100 GO! READ. Since we started in April 2020, our channel has gotten over 140,000 views.
Our Veteran Volunteer Rose Leong was awarded 2021 Outstanding Older American Award for the City & County of Honolulu.
Mahalo Nui Loa to all our volunteers Auntie Pat, Rose, Kody, Maile, Bel, Katie, Olivia, Donalyn, Melissa, Catherine, David, Emily, Corina for finding the time to share some of your favorite stories, Thank You Roselily, Kawika and Esmenio for helping with distributions and our partners LeJardin Students, Ohana Kokua Club for helping to make this year a success! GO! READ
NEW YORK: We serviced programs throughout the WNY region Cattaraugus County, to Buffalo schools in Erie County, and up north in Niagara County. Our volunteers have read to over 200 children virtually. They also reached a broader audience around the world, reading stories for our YouTube Channel O100 GO! READ. Since we started in April 2020, our channel has gotten over 140,000 views.
Mahalo Nui Loa to Eileen, Linda, Wendy, Sarah, Michael, Anna, Ella, and Asbury Seniors for sharing your stories and our partners for helping to make this year a success! GO! READ
2020 Volunteers Making A Difference
Lives changed throughout the world in 2020. See how the pandemic impacted some of our young volunteers.
ANDREA. Hi everyone! My name is Andrea, and I am a junior at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore. I am a psychology major and double minoring in forensic studies and communications. When I graduate, I plan on going into the public relations field or becoming a licensed clinical counselor. I am home this semester due to the pandemic and have been spending a lot of time with my family, especially a lot of time with our newest addition –Holly! Holly is our 8-month-old golden retriever we got in May, and she is the sweetest dog in the world.
I love how reading transports you to a different reality when you are deeply invested in a book. A good book can suck me in for hours if I really enjoy the plot and characters. I also love reading children’s books through Ohana100 because it reminds me of when I was a child and when my parents used to read my siblings and me bedtime stories. My favorite children’s books to read are the Christmas ones because they are so magical and exciting!
I have been impacted by COVID a lot. I was in my sophomore year of college when we were sent home from our school last March, and I have not been back to school since then. My university decided to do remote learning this semester (like many other schools), so my days have been filled with Zoom meetings. Also, a lot of my college friends live very far away from me, so I have not seen a lot of them in months. I was also supposed to study abroad this spring in Athens, Greece but that was cancelled due to the pandemic. I was really looking forward to traveling throughout Europe, but I know now is not the best time to study abroad. Fortunately, nobody I know has tested positive for COVID, and I am very grateful my family and friends are healthy during this difficult time.
I found the best way to cope with the pandemic is to do something you are passionate about and genuinely enjoy doing! I have started to cook and bake a lot over the last few months, and my family encourages me to do so! They love when I bake sweet treats and cook elaborate meals. My favorite dish I made were shrimp tacos, and my favorite dessert I made was key lime pie (also my family’s favorite!). Another way I cope with the pandemic is through exercising and working out. I ran a LOT over the summer and am thinking about running a half marathon when the pandemic ends. Running is a great way to relieve stress, and a good run leaves me feeling relaxed and accomplished afterwards.
One thing I learned about myself during these times is that I do not mind spending time alone. The pandemic has taught me to be more independent and appreciate quiet and calmness. Although, I do miss my friends and talking to them constantly, it is sometimes relaxing to be able to spend some more time by myself. However, I do text my friends and call them regularly, but it is nice to have the option to have a day where I do not have to interact with people and can just focus on self-care.
I really like the phrase, “This too shall pass.” Everything comes to an end eventually—good or bad. There will be an end to the pandemic, and the world will eventually turn back to normal. It may take some time, but it will happen eventually. I hope everybody and their loved ones stay safe during this scary time, and don’t forget to wear your mask!!
Thank you, Andrea Ludwig
ANNIKA
I am a freshman in high school. Although I don’t really have any career aspirations yet, I’d like to be accepted into a good college. I am active in Girl Scouts and my school tech club.
I enjoy swimming, biking, and reading. The thing I enjoy most about reading is that I get to help children with their literacy, especially during a time that is hard for everyone.
Covid has impacted me because I miss seeing my friends most days, and I miss going places. I have been coping by texting and Face timing my friends often, and going on socially-distanced walks with a friend.
Sincerely, Annika
CAITYLN. I am currently a senior and I really enjoy involving myself in performing arts, including dance, singing, and musical theater. I also enjoy drawing, baking and cheerleading. I hope to achieve my goal of reading more often because it helps improve memory, empathy and our vocabulary. And I hope to one day be a Broadway performer and an actress.
Some things I enjoy about reading are how you get to use hour imagination and allow yourself to experience multiple realities.
Although covid prevented me from experiencing a full senior year experience, it gave me more time to hangout with my family, read more and find new hobbies. I learned that I enjoy baking and reading romance novels. If you put your heart into it and just keep trying no more doubt, your dreams will come true.
Have an amazing day!
What I enjoy most abut volunteering is the fact that I’m not just helping the people around me, but the other living things that help us and that community we live in. Volunteering gives me a chance to help out and make our environment a better place.
CATHERINE
Hello! I’m Catherine, I find that learning new things and meeting new people is so important. Algebra, Music, and Chemistry are my favorite classes at the moment! Getting a better understanding about the world around us, I find awesome.
I’ve studied many instruments throughout the years since I was 3 years old. It all began with the violin, and through that I eventually moved on and towards alternate and wide aspects of music genres and instruments.
Writing and reading has always been a big part of my growth, not only in my mind but my character. Reading allows me to broaden my views, open my eyes to new meanings. Then, what other way to convey ones matter than writing it down. When I write, I can put down whatever I wish, however I want to, whenever I can.
COVID-19 has impacted everyones life. As a high school student, I'm discovering that I’m loosing connections with friends I haven’t spoken to or seen in months. Along with the challenge of grasping knowledge at a distance, sometimes, having to teach myself.
Though it seems this way, all terrible and never-ending, "Everybody wants happiness, nobody wants pain; but there can't be a rainbow without a little rain”. I’ve understood so much about myself that I didn’t know before. I’ve taken time for my family more than before. I’ve truly made some bonds stronger, even from a far. Before the coronavirus, everything way so fast. Breakfast, school, swim, homework, sleep and repeat. It was this cycle of doing things that had broken all of a sudden.
I believe everything happens for a reason, this tragic pandemic has made people ponder, wonder, take time for themselves and loved ones (near or far).
JACOB
I am a student at Northeastern University with aspirations to become a physical therapist! I am completing my undergraduate degree in biochemistry this May and will be attending Northeastern's DPT graduate program once I do. I enjoy running, lifting, skiing, and spending time with friends & family.
I enjoy reading to others because I enjoy doing whatever I can to make a difference in the community. I used to love reading as a kid, and I believe that every child should have the opportunity to read!
I am thankful that I have not been impacted by COVID-19 to the extent that many others have. My family, friends, and I have remained healthy during the pandemic. The biggest impact COVID-19 had on me was that it cut my spring 2020 semester short, as I was sent home from school in March and did not return until June.
Since returning in June, I have been working as an aide in a physical therapy clinic in downtown Boston, where the impact that COVID-19 has had on daily life is very apparent. Patients must get their temperatures taken before entering the clinic and exercise with masks on while I clean any and everything with disinfecting wipes. COVID-19 has been tough, but I recommend getting outdoors for a walk, run, or hike to cope. Spending time with a small group of friends while still being safe can also be a good way to get your mind off of the pandemic. Reading is also a great hobby to participate in during COVID-19, which is another reason why I think Ohana100's help is so important! Stay strong everyone!
KAEYLA
Hi my name is Kaeyla and I’m in 8th grade. I go to Jarrett middle school. I love to dance especially hula. I have been dancing for 5 years at Hinepoeiti. I love jazz and of course I love to read too. It’s one of my favorite things because I can go anywhere by just flipping a page. The thing I enjoy most about reading to kids is the look on there faces because they get so excited and it makes the experience so special.
During this time of COVID, I cope by staying in contact with my friends and family. My sister had to come back from college. I’ve got to spend a lot more time with her and it’s nice to have some bonding time. My family and I love to do board games and if we want to get out of the house we take a ride around the island. The thing I miss most is doing musical. I loved it and not being able to finish it this year made it a lot harder. I know times are hard , but if we work together things will get better soon.
SARAH
Hello! My name is Sarah, and I am a junior at Williamsville East High School! My favorite subjects in school are math and science. Although they are my hardest subjects, they are my favorite because they are interesting to learn about and teach me how to work hard. I hope to achieve a lot this year. It may be more difficult due to some restrictions, but nothing is impossible. I plan to join new clubs and get involved in other extracurricular activities that I've never tried before.
I enjoy reading because it is my favorite stress relieving activity. I love the images that my brain produces when reading and the happiness I receive after I read. It is a great way to learn and stay active in education while doing something that I enjoy. A good book can keep me busy for hours, and the best books are the ones that I never want to put down.
I also love trying new books and extending my knowledge and educating myself through reading books. I also find great joy in reading remotely to children learning in school through Ohana100!
COVID has impacted me in many different ways. COVID has been hard on me and many others due to not being able to see loved ones. I miss my friends and extended family whom I have not seen in months! COVID has also played a role in my education. Learning has been a lot more difficult now that I am not going to school five days a week. COVID has also impacted me in a positive way as well. During the pandemic, I decided to get a job at Wegmans which is an opportunity I wouldn’t have had if it wasn’t for the pandemic.
This is a very difficult time, but I’ve been doing a lot to cope with the pandemic. In my free time, I’ve been trying to focus more on myself. I enjoy running cross country, playing with my new puppy, reading new books, and walking. The pandemic has given me plenty of time to self-reflect and has taught me how to be grateful for everything in life. During these times, I have learned a lot about myself. I have learned how to become more independent and how to have better time management skills. I have also learned how to entertain myself to keep busy, stay positive during difficult times, and how to make the best of negative situations. I know this time is difficult for us all, but always remember to stay positive! Everything happens for a reason and will work out in the end! Stay safe and healthy!
Virtual Reading
Featured
During this time of COVID-19, our volunteer readers continue to give back to the community by connecting with children virtually.
Patricia Munoz “Aunty Pat”, Volunteer: Reading to children via Zoom has been both a little awkward and remarkable. Kristen Eastevedt (Teacher of the Year in her District!) does an impressive job of scheduling and corralling her students for Zoom story time with me. I join ongoing classes twice on the day I visit and Kristen helps facilitate the greetings, names and Q&As afterwards.
Zoom allows the children to get up close to and be curious about the books I'm reading because I am able to fill their home screen with the book pages while I read and am visible on the side bar. I do this by uploading the book I read onto my computer and screen sharing the book pages. If the kids want the pictures/pages bigger or smaller I can accommodate this. To accomplish this I use the feature that you showed me to scan and upload the books onto my desktop! Thank you Catherine
While I miss the person-to-kid interaction and connections that happen in the classroom, I find the level of engagement (by the kids) with the screen encouraging, especially if the child is shy to begin with. So I try to share big colorful books and use make believe ("hey, can you reach in and touch the dragon on the screen?") when I read.
Another down side of Zoom reading is that I only see or engage with a small group of students (3-10) and they are easily distracted by the activity around them @home. But this too has had some plus sides when parents or older siblings get involved.
MESSAGE: From Hauula Elementary- Ms. Kristen Eastvedt -PreK Teacher
This experience has been such a joy for my student's and me! Story time with Aunty Pat is always an anticipated event. The students are very engaged and love her stories and "friends" that she brings along during story time. I teach at a Title 1 school, and the student's have benefitted from the books that are donated. It is such a special time when they receive their very own books from Aunty Pat to keep and share with their families.
During COVID 19 school closures, Aunty Pat has joined our Webex meetings to continue story time. The students are highly engaged as usual! She selects the perfect books that students are interested in. They spark their imagination and students are able to make connections and inferences.
Mahalo nui loa for this amazing program that helps bring books alive to students, even during this pandemic.
NEW YORK
Eileen Ludwig, Volunteer: Although I love being in the classroom and especially miss the kids and their hugs, the Zoom readings have been a positive experience.
I'm really impressed with the students and how they listen and stay engaged during the virtual read-alouds. One benefit to the virtual readings is that I can read to the classes simultaneously, allowing more time for discussions and questions about the stories. A favorite thing of mine about the virtual readings is that I can also share the reading with my daughter, Sarah. This could not have happened in the traditional setting. Sarah also added, "It was so much fun being able to see and connect with the kids!"
Through Zoom, the students were also able meet our 7 month old puppy, Holly. The kids and teachers were very excited to meet her! We both are looking forward to reading to the students again soon!
MESSAGE: From Tapestry Charter School - Ms. Jessica Lemke K Teacher
When my team and I found out our school would reopen, we were filled with excitement! However, during these unprecedented times, we knew there would be many changes. Our school decided not to allow any guests in the building for safety reasons, so we were nervous about our connection with volunteer readers from Ohana 100.
The Kindergarten team was thrilled to set up a Zoom session this month with Eileen Ludwig and her daughter Sarah, so that the opportunity for guest readers could continue across all four classrooms. The students love hearing someone else read to them other than their teachers! Eileen and Sarah read several books to the students and also engaged them in questions and comments about each book to build comprehension skills.
We are so grateful for our friendship with Ohana 100. There is no greater joy than seeing their smiling faces when they are being read to and when they receive new books! Thank you Ohana 100 and we cannot wait until our next Zoom! - Jessica Lemke and the Kindergarten Team
EMILY KANG
Hello! I am Emily Kang, a senior at Roosevelt High School. I like to go out with my friends to eat good food and jog occasionally. My hobby also includes playing the piano, watching movies, and goofing around with my dog.
I will be studying the major Medicine Sciences and the Humanities at Johns Hopkins University next year. I am thrilled to share my volunteer stories as I wrote my college application essay about the collaborative experience and valuable lessons I gained through volunteering for Ohana 100.
At my first volunteer session at the Family Reading Night, little did I know about Ohana 100, I thought that I was not confident nor talented enough to naturally let myself loose when reading to children. Though I enjoyed the time spent with the happy and cute youngsters, I did not have much thought of continuing this journey. However, Rose, a fellow veteran volunteer's words lingered in my mind for a while. "Volunteers gain pride in seeing the children grow up as they read to them."
This was when I thought it would be perfect to bring Ohana 100 to my school. I could share this opportunity with my friends who have both the aptitude and attitude fit for Ohana 100. Through the unique experience of reading to children, the students at Roosevelt High School gained valuable skills: not only leadership, communication skill, and responsibility, but also a boost in self-confidence. High school students with a reserved personality became more expressive by storing self-confidence from the moral support the young children gave. We also emotionally matured by developing patience through the teaching experience. Because Ohana 100 is a meaningful service that benefits both the community in need of help and the high school students that serves, I had decided to make Ohana 100 into this school year's JROTC Battalion Service Learning Project. Our service learning report was successfully presented to the JROTC headquarters and had received many positive comments!
I enjoy reading to children because of the radiating positive energy that I get to be surrounded by. My favorite moment when reading is when the children give a huge thank-you and good-bye hug after reading. The expressive love we receive is insurmountable by any others. I had never had any contact with little children in my life up until my engagement in Ohana 100. If it wasn't this opportunity, I would have never realized that I absolutely love children. This, in turn, had shaped my aspirations of becoming a pediatrician in the future. I am very thankful for Ohana 100 for providing benefits to multiple corners of the community.
CONGRATULATIONS EMILY! WE ARE PROUD OF YOU AND WE WISH YOU THE BEST OF LUCK IN YOUR ACADEMIC AND CAREER ENDEAVORS! MAHALO FOR YOUR SERVICE WITH OHANA100!
Ohana100 recognizes youth volunteers for their ACTS OF KINDNESS. Volunteers who display leadership and service in their school and community will be recognized.
PAT MUNOZ
PAT MUNOZ
I’m retired and spend most of my days attending enrichment classes at UH, or at various workshops learning and practicing new skills like sewing, knitting, painting and odd crafts! On outdoor days I love jogging, hiking and joining friends on boat rides to the Sandbar. I have a wonderful life here in Hawaii and volunteering with OHANA 100 is part of that happiness.
My second career was as a part time language arts and EL teacher with DOE . After 15 years of teaching children in K-3 I retired. My love for working with children led me to a few volunteer opportunities. After a year of trying out different programs I settled on OHANA100 and it is the perfect fit.
I believe I am a very lucky person and feel compelled to share this with others and where there is a need. So driving to various Oahu schools and Head Start programs around the island to read to as many children as possible is my priority. I am lucky enough to read to more than 140 children in a month at various locations and it is a wonderful experience.
My favorite part of volunteering is interacting with the children and getting to know them better with each visit. I’m always in awe of how quickly they mature and learn from one visit to the next. I love seeing the stories reflected on the children’s cute faces. As I read to them I see everything: surprise, amazement, sadness, recognition, joy and curiosity. Afterward, when we talk about the stories I hear the empathy and kindness, the excitement and imagination, and the wonder they experience while hearing me read to them.
Of all the books I have read in the last three months my favorite has been Bill Thomson's Chalk which is ironic because of course it has no words! Between the beautiful pictures and the children’s imagination we craft the story together and it never fails to bring about squeals of glee and expressions of delight. Many have wished for magic chalk after we finish the story.
My listeners’ favorite story to date and a close second to Chalk is It Came In The Mail by Ben Clanton. Using a dragon hand puppet and sometimes a toy mailbox made of felt, I read about wishes, letter writing and generosity. The kids love to “talk” to Danny the Dragon (puppet) about the story and share with him what they would ask for from a magic mailbox.
I’m very pleased with OHANA100s outreach and presence in Oahu as it has allowed me to share my joy with children in all “corners” of the island. One of my favorite parts of doing this is walking into each class and hearing the children cheer with delight , “Auntie Pat is here!!”
Clearly, I love doing this and the children love hearing stories.
GABRIELLE ALO
My experience with 'Ohana100 has been nothing but gratifying from the get-go.
Everyone involved has been so uplifting ...the Mattson Ohana, the other volunteers, the kids, and the teachers. I'm from the east coast, where my family still lives, and while being far away from them is difficult, I've been lucky enough to meet these inspiring people through 'Ohana100.
Other than the occasional story to nieces and nephews and a random oral presentation class in college, I had no experience with public speaking at all. What a joyful experience this has been so far! The children's reactions to the content are priceless, from the gasps, squealing laughter, and everything in between. A couple of favorites on rotation that most kids can't get enough of are "Dear Zoo" by Rod Campbell, & "This Book is Full of Monsters" by Guido Van Genechten.
So many memorable moments to speak of ...at a book distribution event, hearing the kids talk about trading books with each other after they finish the one they have ...when I come in & kids pounce to choose which book they want read first that day ...a little girl approaching me after a reading to tell me that she wants to read to her little sister ...and most recently a group shared a couple of song and dance numbers with me before I left for the day :)
So many memorable moments to speak of ...at a book distribution event, hearing the kids talk about trading books with each other after they finish the one they have ...when I come in & kids pounce to choose which book they want read first that day ...a little girl approaching me after a reading to tell me that she wants to read to her little sister ...and most recently a group shared a couple of song and dance numbers with me before I left for the day :)
I joined ‘Ohana100 hoping to make a difference, and share something of what I enjoyed as a child. A couple of my favorite books to this day are children’s books, “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!”, by Dr. Seuss, and “The Giving Tree”, by Shel Silverstein, which still makes me emotional. These days I've been keeping it light, reading autobiographies by comediennes.
I have a full time job, enjoy hanging out and eating with friends, and watching movies in my spare time, but I always try to make time to volunteer for 'Ohana100, among other great organizations. I highly recommend finding an organization that speaks to your heart, and sign up to volunteer. As much as you share of yourself, you'll be happily surprised by all that you get from the experience.
Oftentimes I wonder if I’ve made as much of an impact with the children I’ve met thru this program, as they have affected me. In the end, I decide that as long as I’ve shared a positive experience with them, even with just one book, we leave each other happy that day.
Gabby Alo
KEVIN FINES
I am Kevin Fines, 28 year-old head nurse of operating/delivery room of a hospital here in the Philippines. When I entered college to take up nursing, I was very fond of reading numerous books related to nursing field such as medical, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology and books pertaining to diseases. As far as I can remember, I like to read science related books when I was young especially biology and astronomy. I have completed reading the Narnia series when I was in elementary.
With my books in nursing and medicine, I love to make others aware about things related to health and explain to them in a language that they can understand. Just last year, I was given the opportunity to be with an American medical mission group. The group was consisted of several filipino and other asian nurses, American EMT's and a doctor. This group conducted a 5 day medical mission here in the Philippines that provided free consultation, lab exam and free medicines. I can still vividly remember, numerous faces of hope and joy that someone from other country was there to provide them free medical assistance.
BANGLAYAN: Yesterday was tiring but so fulfilling. One of the best days. At 8:30 am yesterday, we went to Banglayan Elementary. The school is approximately 20 to 30 minutes from the town center and can be travelled by riding either any vehicle but the challenge is the roads that are too narrow that smaller vehicles are used. The place is mountainous that it has uphills and downhills. The school is located on top of a small mountain, so you can just imagine how high the school is. Now the challenge for some students is to walk to school at 5am because their house is located on top of another mountain or located across the river that they have to cross such river everyday.
The kids were amazing. They behaved well during the distribution and they were so eager to look what is inside the books. In fact, when were going home some ran after us then hugged us. They were very grateful. My mom and Kenneth accompanied me to that school. I was touched by how the kids reacted, they were really amazing. Thanks to Ohana 100!
A drawing was made by a kindergartner. It was special how he wrote his name backwards.
Ohana 100 is tiring yet satisfying and fulfilling. Faces of hundreds of kids painted with smiles and excitement is priceless.
What I love most about Ohana 100 is on how I am able to inspire the kids by reading them books, relating and sharing my own story with them.
"Making A Difference, Making It Count and Making Things Happen!"
VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION is a special page to recognize Ohana100 Ambassadors who are making a difference in our communities.
REMEMBERING PA AKAKA
Ohana100’s first volunteer was our grandfather Daniel Akaka, or "Pa" as we called him. He was with our program since 2014 and at 93, he was our oldest volunteer until his passing on April 6th, 2018.
Fondest memories. . .
While distributing books to students at Kaimiloa and Puuhale Elementary, he began greeting each child by their name. We wondered how he knew that, and realized that each student wore a name tag and he would say their name while handing each of them a book.
Pa Akaka was always excited about going out to the schools and promoting the importance of reading. He loved to say "GO! READ" because its so simple to say and so simple to do. He did just that at Pauoa Elementary.
He always asked how you were doing. "Ehhhh, How you doin' and how's the kids?"
Pa Akaka always believed in the importance of an education. He was a former teacher and administrator at several public schools, and a band and choir instructor at Kamehameha Schools on the the island of Oahu.
A special treat for him was to return to a school he opened in the early 1960's to distribute books. He was its first Principal and gave it it's name "Pohakea" which in Hawaiian means to bring forth light, or enlightenment. A fitting name for a school. We've held annual book giving events there since 2014, and he was there for every one of them.
He also proudly dedicated his life to service. He served in the military during World War II, with his church, and for Hawaii in the U.S. House of Representatives and in the U.S. Senate. This service continued for him into retirement when he joined Ohana100 at the age of 89.
We are lucky to have shared wonderful memories with Pa Akaka. We love you always and miss you!
SANDY FRITZ
I grew up in Tonawanda, New York and raised my own family there as well. I have two children and three grandchildren ages 14, 9 and 8. Prior to becoming a volunteer with Ohana 100, I spent many, many hours reading to my grandchildren and browsing bookshelves with them in libraries and bookstores. I truly see the value in reading to young children.
It's been rewarding to see my teenage granddaughter turn into a bookworm. I also make time in my own life for reading and sharing good books with my daughter.
My other passion is crocheting. Recently I made red hats for Little Hats Big Hearts, a project for the Children's Heart Foundation. I was able to make hats for children at the Family Help Center.
After I retired from Sysco in 2014, I was searching for something rewarding to do with my time. I discovered Ohana 100 at the Clarence Senior Center on the bulletin board and I immediately called Liz. It is such a good feeling watching the faces of the children during a reading and getting hugs of gratitude afterwards. Thank you Liz!
ROSE LEONG
Aloha! My students call me "Aunty Rose" and I am a happy volunteer for Ohana 100, a group that reads to children at some of our schools in Hawaii. This is my second year volunteering with Ohana 100 and I continue to enjoy reading to these youngsters, especially my Headstart classes. I have been impressed by the work of the teachers and their assistants as they prepare the children for future success in school. A huge MAHALO for a job well done!
I graduated from the University of Hawaii and also attended graduate school at UCLA. I have been with the Department of Education for my entire career. My first assignment was at Ewa Beach Elementary school for two years. In those early days, we lived on campus in the teachers cottage. It was a great experience as we teachers had wonderful times together. We strolled or biked around the neighborhood and even walked to Puuloa Beach Park for a swim or better yet, we picked "ogo"--seaweed which was pickled and then taken home on weekends. I then transferred a bit closer to home and taught at the Kaneohe Marine Base--Mokapu Elementary School for a year. My next assignment was a "town" school, Lincoln Elementary and there I remained until my retirement. After teaching for over 25 years, I retired from the State. I have been fortunate to have worked with wonderful teachers and be guided by wise administrators. I have two daughters; they did not follow my career choice in education but chose to become engineers! Both live away, one in New York and the other in California with their families. I have 5 grandchildren and am thrilled to have a new addition of a great granddaughter.
With my family away, I am fortunate to have time to do some volunteer work. I enjoy helping to promote literacy by reading to children. It has brought me much joy to be greeted so warmly by the children and being able to interact with classes just by sharing stories with them. With the use of computers and other electronic devices, I believe our youngsters need to be introduced to books which help them use their imagination and make learning fun.
FRENCHIE COFFINET-SMITH
Bonjour! My name is Lorraine Coffinet-Smith and I have been a volunteer with Ohana100 since June 2017. I am so glad to have found this organization, as they are nothing like any other. The name summarizes it all: Ohana. I feel like I joined a family rather than a volunteer organization. I am so blessed to have found Liz and now being able to say that I read to children all around the islands.
I am a graduate from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and I am planning to apply to medical school to eventually become a pediatrician or surgeon. I thought that getting more experience with children would be a great idea and it sure is. I read to four different schools/programs and I love all of them.
One of my favorite moments is when I arrive in the classroom because when the children see me they become so excited and want to see what stories I brought for the day. And when I leave, it’s even more touching; they all want to come hug me at the same time but my arms are not big enough so I hug them.
Ohana100 gives hundreds of books to children at the end of the year and I can’t wait to play Santa Claus this year and witness their excitement and happiness when I bring the books.
I am also a private pilot. Its a hobby I enjoy. When Liz asked me if I wanted to go to Molokai and Maui to deliver some books and read there, I said yes right away. How could I say no to combining two great passions of mine. Another volunteer joined me on this journey. We flew to Maui in my tiny plane and spent the day with children. So many wonderful people welcomed us over there, read to a few classes in two schools and we got to give books. It was one of the best experiences I’ve had since I joined Ohana100 and I am looking forward to so many more.
Merci Liz for all you do, for the opportunity you give us to make children dream about reading.
SIBEL TURON
Prior to Ohana100, I volunteered my time reading to 1st and 2nd graders once a week through an organization called Reading Partners. Silly Doggy is one book that seems grab kids’ attention easily and amuses them quite a bit. Always nice to see their reaction to this story.
My parents (of ethnic Kurdish descent from eastern Turkey) had a poverty-stricken upbringing that deprived them of basic necessities such as running water and electricity. They did not have the financial means to be able to get education past 5th grade. So we would not experience the hardships they lived through, they ensured that my siblings and I received a college education. This education would also work as our security and financial blanket for life. Hence the reason education/literacy cause is very close to my heart.
My profession is Compensation within Human Resources. In my spare time, I go hiking, running and exploring new places in Oahu. Recently, I have been reading interesting and inspiring autobiographies. Currently, I am in between jobs (looking for professional opportunities in Oahu as I’d love to move here permanently) and have sufficient time to be able to dedicate reading to kids in the community.
All the sessions are very special to me but the 1st time I ever read was at Ewa with Liz. Kids were very welcoming and affectionate, each one giving me a warm hug. Being able to engage the kids, especially getting participation from the quiet ones is always rewarding to me.
Ohana100 has been blessed with visiting volunteers just like Bel, all year round. She has read with over 500 children and worked with other volunteers during her stay in Hawaii. Much Aloha and Thank You Bel for your service to Hawaii's children!!
RITA BATZ
I learned about Ohana100 through Volunteer Services at the Amherst Senior Center. The opportunity spoke to my own love of reading, especially reading to children.
I have read with Ohana100 for over a year and have visited many sites- Newfane Early Childhood Center, ABCD Batavia, Family Help Center on Dingens Street and the Priscilla Project located on the west side of Buffalo serving refugee women and children.
I enjoy participating at the book EXPO which featured authors and more books. I enjoy seeing the kids excitement regarding reading. I've also made new friends by volunteering with Ohana100. It is so nice! I am retired and in good health and I hope to continue reading to children in the future.
LACY DENIZ
"I have volunteered for different groups/ organizations/ events.... but this is by far the best organization I've had the honor of working with."
I am currently the traffic reporter for Hawaii News Now Sunrise. Before Ohana 100, I did read now and then to different schools. I have always loved reading and giving back to the community, so I felt that working with Ohana 100 and going into the schools and reading to students was a perfect match for me. I am a huge Dr. Seuss fan so anytime I'm able to read one of those books I definitely take advantage of the opportunity.
What I love most about being a volunteer with Ohana 100 is being able to get out in the community and help students. As a Hawaii girl born and raised, it makes me so happy to know that I'm able to go into our local schools and help our youth. I feel like every time I step into a classroom and read with the kids it creates a new memorable volunteer experience. I love seeing their faces light up when I start talking about a new book, or seeing them engage in my Q&A before and after a reading... most of all, I love seeing how ecstatic they are when they learn they're taking home a new book to add to their library at home. It truly is priceless knowing that within that hour of reading we're able to positively influence a child that will help them for the rest of their life.
Lacy is one of our dedicated professionals, who finds time to give back to our community, after putting in a long days of work. She's incredible!!! Lacy read with children at Waianae Elementary, Lehua Elementary, Nimitz Elementary, Linapuni Head Start, HUGS and Fisher House. Lacy was an advisor and speaker for Ohana100 Youth Summer Service Camp in July. Kids planned, organized and implemented outreach activities. She shared the importance of communication and provided them with helpful tips on public speaking. Currently, Lacy reads with over 100 children every month, visiting Dole Head Start and Palolo Elementary Grades K and 1.
SHEENA JULIANO
Aloha! My name is Sheena Carmela Juliano and I'm majoring in Elementary Education at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Wanna hear my story? Once upon a time, I needed to make 100 community service hours for a Manoa Service Award scholarship I received. The problem was the hours only counted for what I do in Hawai'i, and I only had a month left before I was leaving to study abroad in London. How was I going to find an organization that would help me achieve those hours while having fun at the same time? Luckily, Ohana100 saved the day.
Joining Ohana100 has truthfully felt like being a part of another Ohana. All those times I've spent with Liz and her daughter Catherine driving around the island of O'ahu to read to different schools has really helped me be more comfortable (and eager!) in becoming an elementary teacher one day. I never would have expected to read to over 100 children in just a week, but it's just become so addicting to want to read to more and more kids. There were days where I would read the same "Frozen" storybook to over 5 different classrooms or head start programs in a day, and seeing the smiles from the kids enjoying me being there to read to them made it worth it each time. Connecting and interacting with the kids that way through a good book is what really mattered to me. To me, a good story is one that takes the reader on an adventure in the most imaginative way. And Ohana100 has really helped me lead the children on an adventure with every visit.
My favorite part of my visits is the faces the kids make when I say "I've got a surprise for you...you get to take home your very own book today!" They get so excited to take it home and show it off, it's the most adorable thing in the world.
I'll definitely miss volunteering with Ohana100 while I'm away. I have had so many good reads all over the island: Kunia, Waianae, Kaneohe, Kalihi, Ewa, --it goes on. So really, thank you so much Liz for this amazing opportunity. You have really encouraged me to want to do more for my community with this legacy you have created here. I mean, who else gives away free books for kids to read? You're really the best for doing this because you believe in the power of reading. I'm really glad I had the honor of volunteering with you because I honestly feel like I would have missed out if I hadn't found out about Ohana100. Thank you for helping make the most of my last month here before my semester abroad, and I will definitely be back to read some more when I return! ~
This is only the beginning, Sheena Juliano
MARIE WOLF
Aloha! My name is Marie Wolf, and I feel blessed to have been with Ohana 100 for the past 10 months.
I am proud to say that I was a stay at home mom for 20 years. When I decided to return to the work force I worked retail, and retired after 28 years. During those years I was very fortunate to have babysat my 9 nine beautiful grandchildren before they entered school. I myself am a mother of 4; 3 daughters and 1 son. I became a widow last July and found myself in need of activities to fill my day. I was introduced to Ohana 100 through the Amherst Senior Center and had no idea how this program was going to fill so much more than just my time. This program has filled my heart with so much joy, especially when the children respond to me with loving hugs and excitement to hear more stories.
In addition to having joined Ohana 100, I have been volunteering as a 6th grade religious education teacher at St. Christopher’s Parish for 29 years. I am also a lector for Sunday masses at St.Christopher Church as well. I enjoy volunteering at Williamsville North High School (where 2 of my grandchildren attend school) as a snack bar mom. Every Wednesday at Lindbergh Elementary, I work at the Lindy Mart, where students redeem tickets they have earned for good behavior. While I am there, I end my day helping my daughter in her 3rd grade classroom with any chores or preparation that needs to be done.
As a mother of four children, I know the importance of encouraging children to read. When my children were little I was a library volunteer in their school. Some of my fondest memories is snuggling and reading booksto my children as part of our daily bedtime routine. Some of my favoritre books I like to read to the children that we visit each week are Go Away Dog, Oliver the Elephant, and Carlos and the Librarian. My younger listeners enjoy pop-up books. I like to pass these books around after I read to let the children feel and see the pop up characters. I watch the expressions and excitement as they see the characters “come alive” and jump off the pages. It is so satisfying to see the older listeners show interest as I spark their imagination and curiosity with a good book. Even the babies respond with looks of interest and alertness as I read. Not only does my heart melt with the children’s responses, but it also melts when the refugee mothers respond with body language that demonstrates excitement to my reading even though they can’t speak English.
I love being an Ohana 100 volunteer! It is very satisfying and rewarding to be able to share the gift of reading with all the precious children and their families!
KAREN SCHARFENSTEIN
I am currently retired after working 48 years for the Federal, State and County governments. I started as an accounting supervisor for the Federal government. After 23 years of working for the Feds, I was appointed by two governors in the communications department doing news releases and media advisories and handling the governors’ public appearances. After the governors’ terms ended, I moved over to the City and County of Honolulu, working for a couple of city council members as a legislative aide doing research and handling constituent affairs. Twenty five years later after working for the state and City and County of Honolulu, I retired. I enjoyed my interesting jobs and enjoyed going to work each day.
Reading is always something I have enjoyed. For over 40 years, I started reading to my two girls often volunteering in their classrooms, reading to the students or helping tutor them. I then read to my 17 year old grandson, reading the same books I had saved and read to my children. Today I still read the same books to our Ohana 100 children.
Some of my favorite books are: Tiki Tiki Tembo, Where the Wild Things Are, the Musubi Man, Being Thankful, Clifford books, Fox in Socks, Cat in Hat. Horton Hears a Who, 5 Chinese Brothers, Green Eggs and Ham, Chinaman’s Hat, books on dinosaurs and dolphins, Honu the Scared Turtle, and many more. My children come from the Kuhio Park Terrace (4 classrooms plus a baby class), August Ahrens Headstart (2 classrooms), Waipahu Community Center (1 classroom) and Palolo Headstart (3 classrooms). I will miss them as they move up to Kindergarten, but am excited to meet new students next year.
My most memorable experience is hearing the excited voices of children calling out their greeting to me as they see me pull into a parking space near their classroom and hearing them say – “it is reading time again!!!!!!.” These children never cease to amaze me with their wide berth of imagination – so creative, so positive, so eager to learn. They contribute to the story in ways I never imagined. They often think outside the box and add on to the story making it more interesting often times adding their own experiences to the story. It is so gratifying to have them perk up and play act during story telling.
I enjoy rereading all the old stories I have known my whole life. Meeting new people and the Ohana100 people especially. All of you have made by life circle complete. Ohana100 you feel like real family and I enjoy the activities you have planned and have done. You are truly an inspiration to all of us.
My most memorable experience is hearing the excited voices of children calling out their greeting to me as they see me pull into a parking space near their classroom and hearing them say – “it is reading time again!!!!!!.” These children never cease to amaze me with their wide berth of imagination – so creative, so positive, so eager to learn. They contribute to the story in ways I never imagined. They often think outside the box and add on to the story making it more interesting often times adding their own experiences to the story. It is so gratifying to have them perk up and play act during story telling.
I enjoy rereading all the old stories I have known my whole life. Meeting new people and the Ohana100 people especially. All of you have made by life circle complete. Ohana100 you feel like real family and I enjoy the activities you have planned and have done. You are truly an inspiration to all of us.
Of course trying to make a difference in the critical years of a child’s life and being able to turn their lives around through reading and making a difference and trying to help them succeed in their future lives is my dream come true. It feels like I have won a pot of gold with each child that I can convert to becoming a reader. And, of course, those warm wonderful loving hugs which are so priceless and speak more than words.
Thank you, thank you Ohana 100 leaders for giving me this opportunity to read to children and for teaching and mentoring me.
CAROL ROCKFORD
After spending 40+ years in the financial workplace with an exhausting schedule plus a family life to maintain, I found myself retired with a lot of empty time! I embraced the quiet time for a while until it became too quiet and too empty!
Looking for meaningful volunteer work I came across Ohana 100 through the Clarence Senior Center and it sounded very interesting. After my first reading experience with them, I became very interested in the program and have continued volunteering.
The children are amazing, fun and enthusiastic. I was overwhelmed when recently reading and a child said "Miss Carol, I love you", and other children wanted us to read even more stories. It does truly warm the heart. Some of my favorite stories are about Elephant & Piggy, a series by Mo Williams. The series is about two good friends and their daily adventures with attention to love, friendship and acceptance.
I have definitely gotten way more out of this program then the time I've put into it~I'm so proud to be part of Ohana 100!!!.