Kauai nonprofits receive funds

HONOLULU – Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced the release of more than $1.52 million for various capital improvement and operating grants to Hawaii-based nonprofit organizations whose missions benefit island communities.

“Nonprofits play an integral role in addressing the needs of our communities,” Abercrombie said. “These funds will provide important services and facilities to those in need to create a better Hawaii for all of us.”

Allotment of funds for the following projects on Kauai, identified by state legislators, has been approved by the governor:

$400,000 – Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Kauai – Capital improvement grant for the interior and exterior renovation and expansion for a new Women’s Center facility that will provide sexual assault treatment and services, domestic violence counseling and various youth oriented programs. YWCA of Kauai is a nonprofit organization serving the Garden Isle since 1921 with programs that directly benefit women, girls and their families. Its mission is to eliminate racism, empower women, and to promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people.

$10,000 – Hui o Laka, Kauai – Operating grant for the development and installation of exhibits at Kokee Natural History Museum highlighting the historic 1935 Civilian Conservation Corps Camp and its award-winning volunteer programs within the Kokee State Park. Incorporated as a nonprofit organization, Hui o Laka has operated the Kokee Natural History Museum since 1953 as the primary visitor center for Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Parks. It also sponsors interpretive programs for visitors and residents, including two annual festivals and a volunteer park stewardship program, Kokua Kokee.