CERENE May Reflections & Updates

As May brings more light and fragrant blooms we are excited for all the opportunities and possibilities for resilience as we enter the time of Kau -- we share reflections from the blossoming this past month in this issue as well an exciting update for our Resilience Hub Network on O'ahu.

Mahalo Nui Loa,

Chris Pascua, Brianna Donnelly, Dr. Miku, and the CERENE Team

Updates from partners in our Hubs Learning Community & Network

We're excited to share some big news with you! The Hub Learning Community & Resilience Hub Network is gearing up for its official launch on O'ahu, and we couldn't be more thrilled to embark on this resilience journey together.

As we prepare to kickstart this initiative, we want to invite you to mark your calendars for our pre-launch meeting, where we'll be solidifying the vision, mission, and values of the O'ahu Resilience Hubs. This meeting is a crucial step in our journey towards building a more resilient future for our community.

The Hubs Learning Community initiative aims to establish a resilient network inspired by models like Vibrant Hawai'i and Kupuna Collective, fostering place-based community preparedness for climate-related disasters and chronic stressors -- while serving our community at the neighborhood scale 365 days of the year! Our vision is for every neighborhood to have a trusted Hub, providing support during emergencies and resilience programming during non-emergency times, ultimately contributing to a sustainable and prosperous Hawai'i. Key objectives include raising awareness about resilience hubs, facilitating collaborative learning, and empowering residents with resources to establish and enhance hubs effectively. Through community workshops, online resources, expert-led discussions, and partnerships, we will achieve these goals, with monthly Zoom meetings and breakout sessions fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration among participants.

We wanted to keep you informed about our progress and goals. Stay tuned for further updates as we move closer to our official launch! Want to be included in this launch (and haven't received an invite?) please sign up HERE (and send an email to Dr. Miku at miku4@hawaii.edu).

Mahalo nui loa for your continued support!

CERENE Team Lead, Dr. Miku Lenentine was fortunate enough to attend the Vibrant Hawai'i Summit once more to learn from our amazing mentors and role models on Hawai'i Island for their model of a Community Resilience Hub Network! Dr. Miku attended alongside regional partners from the budding O'ahu Resilience Hub Network from Ko'olaupoko and Ko'olauloa with support from Castle Foundation. We are excited to share updates and learnings from the summit and to support the energy and efforts on Windward O'ahu as they continue to work with Vibrant Hawai'i, Castle Foundation and CERENE over the summer and into Fall for a special focus on the region. You can read more about Vibrant Hawai'i at their website here.

(Group Photo from Vibrant Hawai'i)

This month, CERENE hosted a field research training focused on community and culture. Participants delved into various indigenous research methodologies, learned about systems thinking, and explored resilience practices for disaster preparedness. They also gained insights into reducing ecological footprints by monitoring waste, water, and energy usage. Additionally, attendees had the chance to engage in forest restoration and invasive species removal activities. The weekend offered a blend of sunrise meditation, yoga sessions, informative lectures, connecting with nature, and teamwork, providing a holistic and enriching experience for all involved.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the exceptional students of the Transcending Barriers to Success in Economics program and our dedicated Resilience Corps Leaders at CERENE. Throughout the semester, they've showcased their dedication to resilience through research, community engagement, and the integration of indigenous methodologies, embodying the future leaders of the resilient community we're building together. From journalism to ecology, economics to indigenous studies, and beyond into specialized medical fields, their diverse backgrounds and wide-ranging expertise have enriched our collective journey. Their commitment, passion, and contributions have been truly inspiring. As we celebrate their achievements, we're grateful to all those who have played a part in their resilience journey and have shared their lessons with us. Together, we're forging a path toward a brighter, more resilient future, and our students are leading the way. Congratulations to all on a remarkable semester, and we look forward to witnessing their continued impact and success

Congratulations to our outstanding CERENE Team members on the completion of their degrees at Kapi'olani Community College! We are thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone with them and are filled with pride as they embark on the next chapter of their journeys. Their dedication, hard work, and perseverance have brought them to this momentous occasion, and we have no doubt that they will continue to achieve great things in their future careers and educational pursuits. We extend our deepest appreciation to the families and friends who have provided unwavering support, encouragement, and love throughout their academic endeavors. Your contributions have played an integral role in their success, and we are grateful for your unwavering commitment. As our graduates move forward, may they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and passion they have cultivated during their time at Kapi'olani Community College, and may they continue to inspire others with their remarkable achievements. Here's to a bright and promising future filled with endless possibilities!

Special thanks to Hawaiian Electric for funding our Resilience Corps Leaders, and to the amazing support staff at Kapi’olani Community College and Faculty Instructors, Mentors and Guides. Congratulations everyone! We did it again!

This month, our CERENE community returned to Waiakeakua Forest, CERENE has a commitment to visiting every second Sunday for restoration efforts. As we can see the roots and progress of our previous work starting to take hold, we were privileged to yet again engage with Uncle Bruce

Keaulani, who shared more valuable insights on indigenous cultural protocol and education. Surrounded by the forest's natural beauty, its a unique chance to foster a deep connection to the land and its resilience. Our ongoing efforts in combating invasive species and nurturing native flora and fauna reaffirmed our dedication to building a sustainable future. With each visit, we're reminded of the importance of our collective work in healing the land and fostering community resilience.

A collection of historical hurricane tracks shows 38 storms that passed within 1,000-mile radius of Hawaii between 2015 and 2020. Credit: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

As we enter Hurricane Preparedness Week and observe Wildfire Awareness Month, it's crucial to remind ourselves and our communities of the importance of preparation. Both hurricane season (June 1 - November 30) and the increased risk of wildfires demand our attention and proactive measures.

Key Actions to Take:

1. Create a Family Plan: Ensure every family member knows what to do and where to go during an emergency.
2. Build a 14-Day Disaster Supply Kit: Stock up on essential supplies including food, water, medications, and emergency equipment.
3. Harden and Prepare Your Home: Take steps to safeguard your home against both hurricanes and wildfires. This includes clearing debris, securing loose items, and installing protective measures.
4. Check Insurance: Review your insurance policies to understand what is covered and update them if necessary.
5. Determine Your Risks: Know the specific risks your area faces from both hurricanes and wildfires and plan accordingly.

Hurricanes can significantly contribute to wildfire risk, even without making landfall. The strong winds and dry conditions associated with hurricanes can exacerbate fire dangers, making preparedness for both hazards essential.

Stay Informed with the Latest Climate Predictions and Fire Potential Insights!

We invite you to dive into the National Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook publication to stay updated on crucial climate trends and fire potential assessments.

From the Hawaiʻi and USAPI Climate Summary:

• El Niño Advisory/La Niña Watch: As of March 14, 2024, above-normal sea surface temperatures (SSTs) were observed across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean.
• Upcoming Transition: The NOAA Climate Prediction Center (CPC) forecasts a transition from El Niño to ENSO-neutral conditions by April-June 2024 (83% chance) with increasing odds of La Niña developing (62%) during June-August 2024.

Understanding these climate patterns is essential for preparing and responding to potential wildland fire risks. The National Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook provides comprehensive insights and forecasts that are invaluable for agencies, communities, and individuals involved in fire management and safety.

Read the full publication to learn more about:

• Seasonal climate outlooks
• Fire potential forecasts
• Implications of climate transitions on fire activity

Stay informed and prepared. Access the National Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook publication in our resources section now!

Presentation on Geography, Vulnerability, Crisis and Adaptation in Hawai'i

Watch the Recording: Resilient Nation Partnership Network 2024 Forum

Panel Discussion Highlights:

• Climate Equity and Storytelling: Explore how storytelling can advance natural hazard resilience and highlight climate equity.
• Film Spotlight - Razing Liberty Square: Dive into the powerful narrative of Katja Esson's film, exploring themes of community, resilience, and justice.

Watch the full Series below:

• Day 1 – Rising Tides, Rising Divides: Climate and Equity in the Built Environment
  • Razing Liberty Square by Katja Esson
• Day 2 – Building Resilient Agriculture: Lessons from Island Communities
  • Stewards of the Land by JuanMa Pagán Teitelbaum
• Day 3 – Extreme Heat: Reflecting on the Hottest Summer to Date
  • The Hottest August by Brett Story
• Day 4 – Tribal Migration: Adapting to Climate Hazards
  • Newtok by Andrew Burton and Michael Kirby Smith

Estimated Total Program Funding:

$2,000 (USD) Azure services credits per year

Eligibility

Eligible nonprofits can leverage $2,000 (USD) Azure services credits per year and access the complete portfolio of Azure products and cloud services. Microsoft offers a free Azure Onboarding Concierge service for organizations new to the Azure grant or those needing a refresher.

Synopsis

Microsoft Tech for Social Impact provides affordable and accessible technology to help nonprofits of all sizes achieve their mission. With the Azure grant, eligible nonprofits can leverage Azure services credits to enhance their technological capabilities. Additional nonprofit offers include:

• Improve cybersecurity, reduce costs, and empower staff and volunteers to work remotely with Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Teams, free for up to 10 users and at a discounted price of $5.50 (USD) per user/month for additional users.
• Develop mobile and web apps with Power Apps, free for up to 10 users with discounted pricing of $2.50 per user per month for additional users.

Get started with free technology grants and discounts across Microsoft’s cloud products including Microsoft 365, Azure, and Dynamics 365. Register and confirm your organization’s eligibility to access these benefits.

Click here for more information

Current Closing Date for Applications:

May 31, 2024, 5.00pm PDT

Estimated Total Program Funding:

Up to $250,000 per applicant per year for three years

Eligibility

Eligible applicants are Indigenous-led nonprofit organizations in the USA focusing on improving social and emotional well-being among Indigenous boys and men. Organizations can apply for funding for new innovative programming or existing programs that need stronger evidence of outcomes.

Synopsis

Movember’s Indigenous Men’s Wellbeing Innovation Initiative will provide grant funding and capacity building opportunities to empower Indigenous-led organizations to develop, implement, and evaluate innovative programs/interventions to improve Indigenous men’s social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB). This initiative is part of Movember’s new Indigenous Social and Emotional Wellbeing Portfolio. Funded programs and initiatives should achieve one or more of the following outcomes for Indigenous boys or men:

How to Apply

Lodgement of EOIs will be via the online grant application portal: Grant Interface Portal. Following registration and profile setup, applicants will be requested to complete and upload a simple expression of interest (EOI) form outlining their proposed project.

Got Questions?

All enquiries relating to this funding opportunity should be emailed to Rhiannon Watt (Program Manager, Community and Workplace) at rhiannon.watt@movember.com

For more information and to share grant opportunities in our upcoming Newsletter, please contact CERENE at cerene15@hawaii.edu. Special thanks to HUD and the KCC GO (Kapi'olani Community College Grants Office) for supporting this work and sharing opportunities!

Wishing you abundance and prosperity for all that you do.

E lauhoe mai na wa'a i ke ka i ka hoe i ka hoe i ke ka pae aku i ka 'aina.

Ho'okahi ka 'ilau like ana.

The Hauula Emergency Preparedness Faire & Farmers Market brought together the community to promote readiness and support local vendors. Attendees explored a variety of stalls while gaining valuable information on disaster preparedness through workshops and demonstrations. Highlights included sign-ups for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and Ham Radio training. The event fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among residents, strengthening the community's resilience. Organizers encouraged ongoing engagement and support, with the HELP Team available for further assistance. Together, the Hauula community continues to build a safer and more connected neighborhood, prepared for whatever challenges may arise.

The Resilience Corps Leadership Award Program is made possible through funding from our generous donors Hawaiian Electric and State Farm.

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