State Celebrates Elder Volunteers

Exceptional elder volunteers from around the state will be recognized at a state-level celebration of Older Americans Month at Kahala Nui Retirement Community in Honolulu next month.

Outstanding elder volunteers from each county will be recognized at the event, which Governor David Ige is expected to attend. The event recognizes the elder population in the islands, which makes up almost one quarter of the state’s population.

Each county is responsible for creating a committee that chooses its two outstanding volunteers. Mayor Billy Kenoi’s Committee on Aging chooses the Big Island’s nominees.

“Blaze a Trail” is the theme for this year’s event, selected by the United States Administration for Community Living. The theme aims to bring awareness to issues faced by older adults and a chance to highlight ways that they are advocating for themselves, their peers, and their communities.

Locally, the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs is spearheading the event and luncheon, which is sponsored by Kahala Nui Retirement Community. PABEA falls under the state’s Executive Office on Agency, and is comprised of volunteers appointed by the Governor.

The event will take place on Friday, June 3 at 10 a.m.