For new parents in Hawai‘i, the journey of raising children just got a little less solitary. Family Hui Hawaii, a non-profit organization, is bridging the gap for parents by creating a space for friendship, support, and shared knowledge in small groups. Founded in December 2013, this initiative has made a significant impact, reaching over 1,800 individuals across the islands.
Executive Director Cherilyn Shinoki is at the forefront of this movement. She emphasizes that Family Hui Hawaii’s primary goal is to empower parents and help them be the best they can be. “We’re here to encourage and empower them and give them knowledge so they can feel confident,” she says.
The organization achieves this by fostering connections within small groups of families, where parents and their children, known as ‘keiki’ in Hawai‘i, interact and support each other in various community settings such as parks, schools, and recreational centers. These gatherings not only offer emotional support but also lead to deeper relationships among families.
The core program runs for 10 to 12 weeks, but the bonds formed within it tend to last much longer, according to Shiinoki. “Our expertise is creating and holding that space for families to share with each other,” she adds.
Family Hui Hawaii’s mission encompasses the well-being of children, their health, education, and overall welfare, while also taking a strong stance against child abuse and neglect. The organization provides parents with evidence-based practices that align with early childhood development, equipping them with the tools needed to raise children in a nurturing environment.
This initiative has gained momentum over the years, with the support of the community, word of mouth, and partnerships with various agencies and businesses. Notable collaborations include initiatives with the Salvation Army and its Family Treatment Services programs, as well as the Malama Family Recovery Center, an addiction treatment facility in Kahului.
Furthermore, businesses like UHA Health Insurance and Hawaiian Electric have run pilot programs using the Family Hui Hawaii model with their employees, strengthening the impact of the organization’s work.
Family Hui Hawaii’s reach extends to a diverse range of families, including teen parents, single parents, special-needs families, and extended ‘ohana (family). The organization even takes its mission to neonatal intensive care units, focusing on early interventions to safeguard the well-being of newborns.
Shiinoki highlights a troubling statistic, saying, “Over half of child abuse and neglect victims are under one year old.” This underscores the importance of prevention and early intervention in child care. She believes that every family should have the opportunity to experience what Family Hui Hawaii offers, encapsulating it as the ‘have a baby, join a hui’ concept. The organization’s tireless efforts are making a significant impact, transforming the way new parents in Hawai‘i navigate the challenges of raising their children.
