Founded in 1939 by Violet Kam, Lanakila Pacific is a non-profit organization that builds independence and improves the quality of life for individuals with cognitive, physical, social, or age-related challenges. Violet Kam was a special education teacher who helped recuperate tuberculosis patients. Soon, her services expanded into a family of social programs, and today Lanakilia Pacific serves over 2,000 people each year.

Image from https://www.lanakilapacific.org

Lanakila Pacific advocates for people with disabilities because the organization strongly believes every person has the right to live his or her life to the fullest. Lanakila Pacific's programs include Lanakila Meals on Wheels, which aids seniors island-wide, Lanakila Teaching and Learning Centers, an education program that mimics workforce resources and a college structure, and hands-on job training.

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1. Lanakila Meals on Wheels is the largest island-wide food delivery program for seniors on Oahu. Volunteers drive and deliver hot, nutritious meals. In addition, Lanakila Kitchen provides a full-time catering service and makes the meals for the program. 
   **If you are interested in delivering, meal packaging, or shuttle driving, this program is for you!
   
   
2. The Lanakila Teaching and Learning Centers offer many classes that develop basic life skills often taken for granted, including communication skills, writing and math, housekeeping, grocery shopping, money management and more.
   **If you are interested in teaching classes, leading activities, or joining an event, this program is for you!
   
   
3. The Lanakila Workforce Resources program provides work experience for adults with disabilities who would otherwise have difficulty finding and keeping jobs. The program also offers pre-employment assessments, skill training, and job coaching for the adults, and works with local businesses to enhance job opportunities. The Lanakila Maintenance is hired to upkeep custodial and ground facilities, and Lanakila Custom Products create products with screen-printing, embroidery, and gift packaging. Both profits from these services directly support employment for people with challenged lives.
   **If you are interested in leading a job club, practicing interviews, or joining an event this is for you!
   

If volunteering at Lanakila Pacific interests you, please email volunteer@lanakilapacific.org, or fill out an application at https://www.lanakilapacific.org/volunteer.