Name: Opening Doors: School-to-Work 2025-2027
Start: 2025-01-31T09:30:00-1000
End: 2025-01-31T10:30:00-1000

E komo mai!

Welcome to the 2025 Kaʻū-Keaʻau-Pāhoa Complex Area Summit! We are thrilled to host the 8th Annual KKP CA Summit at Keaʻau High School Campus, where we’ll come together to inspire, learn, and grow as a collective body.

This year, we are honored to announce our keynote speaker, Nainoa Thompson, Master Navigator and President of the Polynesian Voyaging Society. Nainoa is a true embodiment of achieving excellence with intention, leading the way for the Hōkūleʻa crew as they prepare for the transformative Moananuiākea Voyage—a bold, four-year circumnavigation of the Pacific.

In addition to Nainoa’s powerful address, we’re excited to offer a variety of breakout sessions featuring dynamic speakers and topics from national, state, and local community agencies, as well as our own Complex Area and school educators. Together, we’ll explore innovative ideas and actionable strategies to support our students, schools, and communities.
Let’s make this summit a time of connection, growth, and shared purpose as we continue to thrive together. Mohala I ka wai ka maka o ka pua - Flowers thrive where there is water, as thriving people are found where living conditions are good. #KKPCA_Thrives

Friday January 31, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am HST

H-108

The Arc of Hilo, Hawai'i Island (AOH) is launching a 3-year project in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Voc Rehab to help parents, educators, and students overcome barriers to successful transition to employment and community inclusion. Our shared challenge: 30% of the island's population of SWD live in Puna, with a vast geography and unique rural challenges. It's so confusing, from access to transportation to SSA benefits, to enrolling in DVR, or the Medicaid waiver, or appealing denials. We can help. But most importantly, we want our youth to feel inspired, and not afraid of the future. AOH is hiring Peer Mentors (students who have successfully transitioned from school to work) to help us connect, inspire, and prepare youth who are coming up behind them. Come join us for an 8-minute documentary and Peer Mentor testimonials! You won't want to miss it.

Speakers

Robert Efford

Chief Executive Officer, Arc of Hilo

Robert Efford is the CEO of the Arc of Hilo, with over two decades of experience in employment services.

Karl Hennen

Arc of Hilo

Karl Hennen operates the Arc's school-to-work and supported employment, with a background as an educator.

Friday January 31, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am HST
H-108

Morning, Supportive Systems and Environments

Audience Administrators, Counselors, Complex Area Staff, Student Services Coordinators, Special Education Teachers

2025 KKP Complex Area Summit

Robert Efford

Karl Hennen

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