KTA Supports Ku’ikahi Keiki Mediation with $15K Donation

Tiara Autrata, peer mediator. Kuikahi Mediation Center courtesy file photo.

Ku’ikahi Mediation Center received a multi-year commitment from KTA Super Stores in support of the center’s training of student peer mediators.

The $15,000 donation will span a three-year time period and has been presented in memory of Koichi and Taniyo Taniguchi, KTA Super Stores’ founders.

Student peer mediation is both a program and a process where students of the same age-group facilitate resolving disputes between other children.

This process has proven effective in schools around the United States and in Hawai‘i, changing the way students understand and resolve conflict in their lives, including improved self-esteem, listening and critical thinking skills, and school climate for learning.

“We look forward to a most successful program because we believe that early intervention is the best means of prevention,” said KTA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Barry Taniguchi.

During the 2015 to 2016 school year, over 100 fourth, fifth, and sixth graders have been trained as peer mediators at Hawai‘i Academy of Arts & Sciences, Kea‘au, Kapiolani, Keonepoko, Laupahoehoe, and Mountain View elementary schools.

“We so appreciate KTA’s commitment to the well-being of Hawaiʻi Island and people of all ages. The Taniguchis are tireless advocates of community causes and renowned for their generosity,” noted Kuʻikahi Executive Director Julie Mitchell. “KTA’s key support of the Peer Mediation Elementary School Pilot Project has been critical in leveraging additional interest and funding. We are extremely grateful.”