Kōkua ‘Ohana

Gathering and supporting foster families and keiki in the Hawaiian community

Partners in Development Foundation initiated Kokua ‘Ohana in collaboration with the State of Hawaii Department of Human Services. The program uses an innovative approach to foster care reform built around the notion of “families helping families.” Currently, fifty two percent (1400) of children in foster care are native Hawaiian. Only half (686) are placed in homes who share their cultural background and heritage.

Kōkua ‘Ohana works with churches and community organizations within the Native Hawaiian community to recruit, train, and support foster families. By working hand-in-hand with the community, Partners in Development and the Kōkua ‘Ohana program hope to further the well being of Hawai‘i's vulnerable keiki and the Native Hawaiian population at large.

Carol Maka‘ina‘i Project Director

Ms. Maka‘ina‘i brings years of experience to Kōkua ‘Ohana as the Project Director and the Statewide General License Recruitment Coordinator for Hui Ho‘omalu. She has served as a Project Director for various non-profits such as Ke Ola Mamo, Case Manager and Project Coordinator at the Life Foundation and also holds the title of Executive Director of Ka Hale Ola Makamae, an organization dedicated to bring education and awareness of HIV and AIDS. Ms. Maka‘ina‘i dedicates her time as a Child and Youth Advocate and is currently working towards her Masters degree in Social Work at Hawai‘i Pacific University.

Foster Care Appreciation Month Youth Talent Show and Dinner

Listen as Ben Markus of Hawaii Public Radio reports on Kokua ‘Ohana.

Thursday, May 21, 2009
Partners in Development Foundation Celebrates National Foster Care Month at the Windward Mall with “Rekindle Hope” Event

Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Kokua ‘Ohana is Featured on Unsung Heroes Program: Foster Parents Where Are You?
Airing May 6th & 13th @ 6:30p on Ch 52

Tuesday, April 7, 2009
KGMB 9 - Sunrise with Anakala ‘Iokepa
Kokua ‘Ohana Program Shared in the Hawaiian Language