LIHUE — Kaylynn Drake is a sophomore at the Kamehameha Schools-Kapalama and was home for the Presidents Day weekend, spending time with her church’s youth group Saturday at the Kauai Bowling Center.
Drake, who started KekuaAloha Foundation, or God Is Love Foundation, announced plans for the second Free Keiki Fun Day and Fitness Challenge on April 22 at the Kapaa Beach Park.
“As a former Pre-Teen and Miss Hawaii Teen, Kauai pageant representative, my journey has allowed me to share my passion about living a healthy and happy lifestyle with my peers,” Drake said. “As a teenager, I know this is not easy. We are under a lot of pressure. This path may not be a 100 percent cure to obesity, bullying, or suicide, but I believe it may help our younger people make healthier choices by staying active.”
Drake said her youth experiences inspired her to promote healthy and strong families.
“Even at 12 years old, I felt compelled to get involved,” Drake said. “Since that time, I have lost a number of friends, and family to suicide. My most recent loss was my cousin who was a senior and lost her life just a few weeks before graduation. This is my way of keeping their memory alive.”
Drake’s drive led to the formation of KekuaAloha Foundation, whose mission is to take a stand against teenage suicide in Hawaii by sharing God’s love.
A portion of proceeds will be donated to the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, Hawaii Chapter.
There will be a craft fair, obstacle course, food booths, prizes and music.
There will also be photo contest, “What does ‘Ohana look like?” where entrants can send in a photo of their favorite activity they do together. Deadline is April 7.
“My favorite quote is from Disney’s Lilo and Stitch —’‘Ohana means family, and family means no one gets left behind, or forgotten,’” Drake said. “I asked my mom, ‘What does ‘ohana look like?’ and that inspired me to have the photo contest, which is new this year.”
Entries should be mailed to KekuaAloha Foundation, P.O. Box 158, Anahola, HI 96703.
Kaylynn said she has received a lot of support for this project.
“I have been very blessed to have a strong support system which includes God, family, and good friends who believe in my vision,” the Anahola girl said.
