When you inspire purpose in someone, you unleash the potential to transform uncertainty into possibility.
And when we have a shared purpose, we can do more and be more together.
It is with much gratitude that we share these inspiring stories of hope and triumph.
"I have a vision disability --but to me, it's no a barrier. I believe that if you have a disability, it shouldn't prohibit you from doing anything you want to do. Do not let your disability discourage you because it will only hold you back."
Always working with a positive attitude and a smile, Jose has been a member of Lanakila Custom products team since 2012. After completing two years of training in Lanakila Training & Advocacy Program, Jose was hired and now leads all embroidery project. He excels working with the embroidery machine; intrigued by the technical aspects of how the machine is runs.
After successfully completing Lanakila Training & Advocacy’s program in just six weeks, Edlynne was hired as an employee of Lanakila Kitchen
Her responsibilities expanded from helping to prepare frozen and fresh meals for seniors to serving hot breakfasts and lunches to the general public in the cafeteria. Edlynne enjoys working as a cashier as it helps improve her math skills while helping customers. She is thrilled about her accomplishments of learning to mix and scoop batter in the scone baking process.
Seth says the most important things he's learned from Lanakila Pacific are the values of teamwork, communication and leadership.
Starting in Lanakila Training & Advocacy's program in January 2017, Seth learned how to perform various custodial duties such as vacuuming, polishing furniture, and cleaning windows. As a trainee, he struggled with time management, but worked every day to improve. He was eventually able to match his time with national standards and even beat those times on several occasions. Those were very happy days for Seth. After successfully graduating from the program, he was hired as a permanent member of Lanakila Grounds & Custodial Services team in Fall 2018.
Though it can be challenging for Kevin to interact and communicate with people, he persevered each day advancing from a cashier serving over a 100 people daily to a trainer on his team.
Kevin first came to Lanakila pacific in 2015 as a Lanakila Meals on Wheels volunteer. After being promoted to a permanent position, he struggled with the demands of the job and was then transferred to Lanakila Kitchen where he now thrives. Kevin's growth continued as he now prepares sandwiches and appetizers as a pantry in hopes of one day being a cook.
