Hawai‘i Public Health Association celebrated National Public Health Week on April 6, 2021 featuring individuals and organizations who used innovative strategies to support community wellness in Hawai‘i during the pandemic. 

PRESENTERS:

Dr. David Derauf, MPH, MD
Executive Director, Kōkua Kalihi Valley

Meetu Kelen
Community Health Worker, West Hawai‘i Community Health Center, Marshallese Community Association

Michele Navarro Ishiki, LCSW, CSAC
Kū Makani, The Hawai'i Resiliency Project

Community encompasses every aspect of our lives – it’s where we live, work, learn and play. These make up the social determinants of health, but many people face community barriers to health and well-being. People with greater feelings of support and inclusion within their networks tend to live longer, respond better to stress and have stronger immune systems than those who are isolated from their communities. 

At the event, we heard from community leaders who know what their communities need, and support the work they’re doing to create change. The pandemic brought different levels of stress to us all, and we included relaxation compoents with a musician and guided meditation to close out the event.

Members can view the event recording on demand HERE.