As we look back on last year, we see a collection of moments through brightly colored drawings, children at their school desks, and shovels in dirt. These are moments in time when individuals in our community connected with Ho`ōla Nā Pua. Each year we grow to meet the needs of our community. Last year we were able to reach more youth in juvenile facilities, students in new school districts, and we broke ground on Pearl Haven, our future residential campus for survivors.
By the Numbers: 2018 Impact
Sex Trafficking Support Programs
In 2018, we reached over 26,000 people with our mission and connected with community stakeholders who are joining in to be part of the solution. The problem of sex trafficking requires us to surround our keiki with support. This has meant an expansion of our programs in order to reach more keiki and the adults in their lives.
Sex Exploitation and Trafficking Education
We seek to prevent sex trafficking and travel to schools island-wide to provide education to students on this issue. We found that 3 out of 4 of students received an education on sex trafficking for the first time through our presentations. Also, almost every student walks forward into their lives with the confidence that they can recognize the warning signs of a trafficking situation. We also provide training to professionals and first responders on identification and response to exploitation so that children can then receive the attention and care they need.
Sex Trafficking Mentoring Program
Mentorships are a core focus for us as we know that it plays a significant role in recovery from psychological trauma. OurStarfish Mentoring Program connects a child who has been exploited (or is at high risk of being exploited) to a vetted, extensively trained caring adult to help guide them toward healing, restoration, and successful social reintegration. In addition, we provide group mentoring activities in juvenile facilities to equip youth with empowerment tools that will serve as protective factors when they are discharged. In these settings, youth are encouraged to participate in art activities, lie giving a ‘weather report’ on their mood at the beginning and end of the group session.
Sex Trafficking Awareness
We are often invited to speak at community presentations, including conferences and workshops. Last year alone, we presented at 42 unique venues to raise awareness on the issue of sex trafficking and exploitation. We often meet parents and community members who want to learn more about how to take action on this important issue.
Do you want to learn more about Ho`ola Na Pua and have us present at your place or work or at an event? Please contact us at events@hoolanapua.org.
Sex Trafficking Residential Care Campus
In 2018 we broke ground on the Pearl Haven Campus. This will be the future residence of up to 32 girls who have been sexually exploited. They will receive a comprehensive program for healing, including the possibility of therapy, mental and physical health care, and educational needs. We are currently under construction and have raised 60% of the capital needed to open the doors to Pearl Haven.
Thank you to our supporters who have made this work possible. To get involved as a volunteer, advocate, or contributor, please visit hoolanapua.org.
MAHALO TO OUR SUPPORTERS AND SUSTAINING DONORS 2018
The work to help the Keiki of Hawaii and beyond would not be possible without our donors.
Please consider donating to help continue to make this dream a reality.
Be part of the solution! It’s with the dedication of our supporters that we are able to advance education, awareness, and action to provide restoration for children rescued from sexual exploitation. Whether you want to volunteer your time, voice, or resources, we’ve made it easy find a way to get involved with Hoʻōla Nā Pua.
You can help survivors of sex trafficking. Donations for sex trafficking to Hoʻōla Nā Pua support Health, Education, Advocacy and Reintegration, which includes our Starfish mentorship program and sustains ongoing operating and Pearl Haven site development costs. Our Federal ID number (EIN) is 46-5139164. Your gift may be 100% deductible from your taxable income.
On Saturday, October 29th, volunteers gathered at Pearl Haven’s campus for Make a Difference Day 2017. For 16 years, this annual day of service has brought U.S. communities together with the simple goal of improving the lives of others. 
Anne Forshey’s journey with Ho‘ola Na Pua began with the simple act of opening the Midweek. After reading last year’s feature on Ho‘ola Na Pua, she immediately got on board with the organization, attending a volunteer orientation and supporting the annual Pearl Gala. 
On Saturday, April 1st, volunteers from around the island gathered to give back to the community in celebration of Good Deeds Day. Created in 2007, this annual, global event celebrates the power of volunteering and giving. 
As a graduate student in the field of social work, Marianne Fontillas had researched the topic of sex trafficking in depth. When she joined Ho‘ola Na Pua’s advocacy efforts, she turned knowledge into action, putting her talents towards one of the organization’s biggest events of the year. 
