T H E W O R T H Y PAT H
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THE INSTITUTE FOR HUMAN SERVICES
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SPRING/SUMMER 2024
COMMUNITY
Embracing the Opportunity for a New Beginning
(cont. from back cover)
S
ophia’s selflessness and commitment to her clients left an indelible mark on Saralyn's heart. Moreover, it was the love and care she received from the entire team at the Center, including Uncle Clyde, Mrs. Kase, Miss S, Miss T, Dr. Lum, and Miss Yasmeen, gave her the strength to persevere. As Saralyn's time in the program drew to a close, she was filled with a mix of emotions – fear of the unknown, gratitude for the support she had received, and a burning desire to give back to those who had given her so much. She knew the journey ahead would be challenging, but she was ready to face it head-on, armed with the tools and love she had gained.
For others struggling with addiction, Saralyn offers this message of hope: “Take the hand that is offered, for it may be the one you need to change your life. With the right resources and support, recovery is possible.” As Saralyn embarks on this new beginning of sobriety, she carries the love and lessons she has learned with IHS, determined to pay it forward and help others find their way to a brighter future. Encouragement and consistency are integral to embarking on and continuing the path of new beginnings. For many of our guests and clients, like Saralyn, the compassion shared by IHS staff is a novelty that can take some time to accept and trust.
Volunteer-led activities give guests opportunity to express themselves creatively.
Each household's journey to homelessness is unique, and so are their obstacles to obtaining stable, permanent housing. In this issue, we are showcasing how our programs are transforming lives and spotlighting ways volunteers are helping bridge our guests into the community prior to them moving out of shelter:
OUTREACH
Our outreach teams venture out across Metro Honolulu, Waikiki/East Honolulu, and Windward Oahu to develop relationships with unsheltered individuals. They work to gather information and conduct assessments to connect individuals with services like