I traffic in the world of news, information and conversation.
It’s very easy to get caught up in the swirl of the everyday news cycle, social media intensity and relentless challenges of life.
That’s why balance is such a profound word.
I host a talk radio show where we delve into current events, societal/cultural issues and topics such as politics, crime, education and more. Invariably there is a focus on what’s wrong and how we can fix it.
Simplistic but true.
However, one program I host is “Community Matters," a public service program appearing on all iHeart Radio Honolulu stations, online and via our iHeart Radio App. This program is antithetical to the regular morning show as it is bereft of partisan opinion, accusatory finger pointing and political histrionics.
It could be said that the morning show identifies the problem, and Community Matters identifies those working on solutions.
The FCC requires those with terrestrial broadcast licenses to dedicate a specific amount of time to air content that is beneficial or of service to the community. We are required to air a minimum of 30 minutes of such programming and iHeart voluntarily supplements this policy with hours of public service announcements, community event sponsorships, partnering with several non-profits/ governmental agencies and more.
In the aforementioned spirit of balance, I’d like to highlight select organizations that have appeared on Community Matters and how they contribute to said community.
American Heart Association. Dedicated to the heart health and well-being of all. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure, a leading risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. The American Heart Association of Hawai‘i helps equip more families, schools and communities with training and resources that can help prevent cardiovascular disease. (heart.org)
Alzheimer’s Association of Hawai‘i. Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. It’s a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. There are 10 warning signs and symptoms, and if you notice any of them, schedule an appointment with your doctor. (alz.org)
Aloha Harvest. Their mission statement is “Rescuing Quality Food to Nourish and Strengthen Our Community.” Aloha Harvest collects and redistributes to so many while preventing waste of perfectly good food. It’s amazing just how much waste is generated, and Aloha Harvest intervenes and helps to feed those who otherwise may go unnourished. (alohaharvest.org)
Healthcare Association of Hawai‘i. The Healthcare Association of Hawai‘i (HAH) has served Hawai‘i since 1939. Its 170 member organizations include acute care hospitals, public/private nursing facilities and much more. Each year HAH presents Hawai‘i Healthcare Heroes recognizing health care professionals from all disciplines via nominations from the public. It brings attention not only to the excellent professionals' earning notoriety but reminds the public of the quality of health care in our community. (hah.org)
There is one organization I began a conversation with several years ago and which continues today. I was moved by their mission to end child trafficking in Hawai‘i:
Ho’ōla Nā Pua. I am saddened and outraged at the despicable and unforgivable sexual crimes committed against women (and men). But those grievous emotions are incalculable when such crimes are perpetrated against children. And our community is rife with these crimes including violations and, yes, pimping of kids even within families.
Deplorable.
Ho’ōla Nā Pua is dedicated to the prevention of sex trafficking and the provision of care to those who have unspeakably suffered. Thousands, yes, thousands have been victimized, and Ho’ōla Nā Pua provides care, counseling and advocacy prayerfully leading to recovery. This is one of the darkest aspects of our state, our city. If you know something, say something. (hoolanapua.org)
Fortuitously there have been so many stories shared in my over 30 years of hosting "Community Matters" (originally co-hosting with the legendary and remarkable broadcaster Linda Coble). I hope to provide more in the years to come.
I would encourage you to support the organizations of your choice. I can assure you that your contributions would be deeply appreciated and there is an invaluable feeling you have when you help others.
And remember, your Community Matters.
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