LIHU‘E — David Bown said he had to be careful not to break the crystal award on Friday when he was named the Aloha – Father of the Year recipient for the Island of Kaua‘i at the Mo‘ikeha Building.
“Where did this come from?” said Bown, a financial advisor with Financial Strategies Hawai‘i. “This came out of nowhere.”
Bown, using the format of Financial Strategies Hawai‘i created Financial Strategies for Life in 2009 to address teen suicide.
“Mr. David Bown epitomizes the spirit of fatherhood through his dedication to his family, community, and personal growth,” said Brian Alston, the Kaua‘i Commissioner to the Hawai‘i State Commission on Fatherhood.
“His kindness, positivity, and commitment to his family and community make him an exemplary role model of our criteria.”
Bown’s contributions include:
• Being a kind and positive role model with a strong commitment to family.
• Serving as an inspirational figure to children in community.
• Making significant contributions to the community and our state.
• Providing hope to other families and children.
• Overcoming personal challenges to become an inspirational leader.
• Embodying the spirit of aloha, providing leadership for the greater good of all people.
In addition to the state award, Bown was also presented a congratulatory proclamation by Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami.
The Hawai‘i State Commission on Fatherhood is an advisory body to state agencies dedicated to promoting health family relationships by emphasizing the pivotal role fathers play in their children’s lives.
The group’s mission extends beyond recognition; it strives to highlight the significance of fatherhood and male caregivers across the communities.
The annual Father of the Year award aims to celebrate selected fathers and father-figures who have made their ‘ohana a priority while balancing careers and community involvement.
Some recent Father of the Year award recipients include Mason Chock and Kalama Reis.
