LIHUE — Gov. Josh Green said Wednesday was “fitting” to acknowledge and recognize the Kauai Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, the group’s sponsor, the Agency on Elderly Affairs and the many RSVP volunteers for their dedication and unwavering commitment to public service in our community of Kauai.
“It is fitting that we are gathered to recognize the Kauai RSVP honorees on this day marking the 9/11 Patriot Day, National Day of Service and Remembrance,” said Green in a special message to Kauai RSVP delivered by his Kauai liaison Dana Hazelton.
“As we take this time to pause and reflect on the sacrifice of many Americans, including the heroic 9/11 first responders, we also remember the 32nd anniversary of Hurricane Iniki, which caused widespread destruction and devastation to lives and property on the Garden Island.”
The Kauai RSVP, in collaboration with Americorps Seniors, County of Kauai, Agency on Elderly Affairs, Hawaii Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster and Kukui Grove Center coordinated the gathering of first responders and organizations that respond in the face of disaster and emergencies.
“Since its inception in 1973, with the creation of the AmeriCorps Senior Kauai RSVP, this remarkable program has provided enriching volunteer opportunities for individuals aged 55 and older,” Green said.
“It is in this spirit of selflessness and generosity that we honor the volunteers who have been instrumental in the success of Kauai RSVP. To date, 210 dedicated volunteers have collectively contributed 21,673 hours of labor, translating to approximately $769,391.50.”
Kauai Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson delivered a Patriots Day message from Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami asking people to honor the memory of those people who perished, to recognize the sacrifices made by our first responders, and to reaffirm our commitment to the values of freedom and resilience that define our nation.
With the Kapaa High School JROTC Color Guard presenting the patriotic vein, the event included corps from Kauai Police Department, Kauai Fire Department, U.S. Coast Guard, Ocean Safety Bureau and numerous other community groups that demonstrate the resilience in the face of disaster.
