LIHUE— Shirley Simbre-Medeiros can’t wait to recognize Kauai’s Native Hawaiian elderly at the 25 year anniversary of Alu Like Inc.’s Ke Ola No Na Kupuna program. “This is something so special,” said the Alu Like program specialist and party organizer
LIHUE— Shirley Simbre-Medeiros can’t wait to recognize Kauai’s Native Hawaiian elderly at the 25 year anniversary of Alu Like Inc.’s Ke Ola No Na Kupuna program.
“This is something so special,” said the Alu Like program specialist and party organizer said. “I find there’s a few that started in April 1990 and still present in our program. So they are so special.”
Set to take place at the Anahola Clubhouse, the celebration will honor Anahola resident Leonora Kelekoma and other members who were with the Alu Like between 1990 and 1999.
“She’s the only one that’s there now since 1990,” Medeiros said. “She’s a tough cookie. A very strong lady.”
Kelekoma and the others will receive a certificate of appreciation for their years with the Ke Ola No Na Kupuna program.
The event will feature a luau-style dinner, entertainment, displays and crafts. This will be the first time Alu Like is hosting a party for its anniversary as well.
“There’s such a need to be involved with them (the elderly) because, working with seniors, although I was brought up with the elderly, they’re very lonesome,” Medeiros said. “They need some kind of companion, they need some kind of outing.”
The Ke Ola Pono No Na Kupuna Program provides recreational activities, education, outreach and promotion of well-being to Native Hawaiians of 60 years or older on Kauai, Maui, Oahu and Molokai.
“It’s wonderful, it’s a need for these seniors 60 and older, especially the ones who were home-bound or by themselves,” Medeiros said. “They look forward for the program.”
The festivities will begin at 4 p.m. May 23 and will run until 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 and may be purchased by calling 245-8545 or Medeiros at 645-0668.
Those who wish to attend the event must also RSVP by Friday.
