LIHUE — The Kauai Veterans Center recently received a $10,000 award from the Grove Farm Foundation.
“We are extremely pleased to be able to help Kauai’s veterans,” said Warren Haruki, Grove Farm president and CEO. “We honor veterans who came before us, and those who continue to serve and protect our country.”
Haruki, whose father was a veteran serving with the legendary 442nd Regimental Combat Team during World War II, and whose uncle is Gen. Eric K. Shinseki, a former head of the joint chiefs of staff and federal Veterans Affairs national offices, has an understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices and acts of bravery and heroism performed by veterans.
Funds from the award will help with the renovation of the Silver-Bronze Star and Purple Heart conference rooms at the center, and to the much-needed renovation of the Kauai Veterans Museum in the center.
Some of the renovation work includes replacing worn carpeting, window blinds, air conditioning and ceiling tiles as well as new interior painting.
“The Kauai Veterans Center exists to promote and enhance the delivery of benefits to all veterans, their families and dependents of those who have given their lives for our country,” said Kauai Veterans Council Adjutant Johnette Chun. “We use the Kauai Veterans Center as a meeting place for military functions, veteran events and family programs.”
The Kauai Veterans Center also includes a museum that commemorates the military service of all Kauai veterans and educates the community as to the service and sacrifices of these veterans in defense of the nation’s freedom.
The Grove Farm Foundation is focused on building communities through supporting educational enrichment opportunities, promoting employee volunteerism, enhancing and protecting the environment, assisting health and human-service projects, and creating economic opportunities for Kauai’s sustainable future.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
