An estimated 20-30% of Leeward Community College students are parents, juggling multiple responsibilities.Downwind CC Aims to help change the lives of these people Ohana With the help of the grant, we will expand family-integrated academic services for parents of current and prospective students.
“I gave birth to my daughter during a long break from college. It was very difficult to return to parenthood,” said Leeward resident Kelly Alyssa Soma. CC Students pursuing a bachelor's degree in elementary education. “If Leeward provides more opportunities to involve families in lessons and assignments, more students and parents will find motivation to go to school (or return to school), and young people will see their parents attending school.” We will also be inspired.”
Downwind CC Faculty Group Leeward Hui Ohana was one of six winners (out of more than 100 applicants) to receive a $12,500 award from the Parent-Powered Solutions Fund. The fund was established by Aspen Institute's Ascend, an organization that helps build intergenerational family prosperity and well-being.
“Our parenting students will be able to complete their homework while spending quality time with their children,” said Associate Professor Ashley Biddle, co-founder of Leeward Hui. Ohana.
Downwind CC Student Genesis Tanuvasa, a new member of the recently established Parenting Student Advisory Committee with the help of a grant, is the mother of two children under the age of three.
“We (parents of students) have children to take care of, work to do, homework to complete, and so many things that need to be completed in the day,” Tanubatha said. Told. “I am very grateful for the emotional, financial, and physical support from everyone.”
Some of our support services Leeward CC Services to support students and parents include the Children's Center, which provides preschool education for the children of enrolled students, the Hanaia Leeward food pantry, mental health and wellness counseling, and the Student Center, which also provides telehealth appointments. There are health centers, etc.Leeward Hui Ohana We also offer swap-and-share space and partner with Aloha Diaper Bank.
“Through the Parent-Powered Solutions Fund, we will be able to develop curriculum and provide comprehensive support for people juggling childcare and academic responsibilities,” added Michelle Igarashi, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. I did. “We look forward to strengthening our agency’s services and supporting our community through this partnership.”
—Written by Erin Maruoka
