KAPA‘A — Between 30 and 40 Kaua‘i RSVP volunteers received their recognition gifts on Monday as the staff from the Agency on Elderly Affairs, the Kaua‘i RSVP program, and Kaua‘i RSVP Advisory Council continued its series of drive-through, no-contact distribution of gifts at the Bryan J. Baptiste Memorial Sports Park.
KAPA‘A — Between 30 and 40 Kaua‘i RSVP volunteers received their recognition gifts on Monday as the staff from the Agency on Elderly Affairs, the Kaua‘i RSVP program, and Kaua‘i RSVP Advisory Council continued its series of drive-through, no-contact distribution of gifts at the Bryan J. Baptiste Memorial Sports Park.
The distribution that takes the place of the annual Recognition Luncheon started Friday at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall where nearly 100 volunteers were feted for their service through the Kaua‘i RSVP program.
“It is an honor to offer a message of gratitude to the nearly 350 Kaua‘i RSVP AmeriCorps Senior members and volunteers,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard in a message to the honorees. “In the Aloha State, across this great nation, and throughout the world, we continue to face unprecedented challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although it has prevented this year’s traditional gathering, it can never take away from, nor diminish the hard work, strength, and fortitude of the many Senior Corps volunteers. Upon retirement and even after contributing many years of dedicated service within your various professions, you have remained steadfast in your commitment to serving the community.”
Among the steam of cars rolling through the umbrella of music presented by Allan Domingo and Lani Tani, Nancy and Kikuo Harada marked 25 years of service.
“93 years!” George Mukai flashed a wave from inside his car. Mukai was recognized as one of three AmeriCorps Seniors contributing 20 years of service.
“Sakiko Okihara contributed more than 40 years of service,” said Kaua‘i RSVP director Donna Lynn Loo. “But she now resides in a nursing home. Perhaps we can get a special commendation from our state leaders for this contribution.”
The distribution of recognition awards and gifts continues with a drive-through event taking place at the Kalawai Park from 11 a.m., Tuesday. The final drive through event takes place Thursday at the Waimea Canyon Park.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
