Waikiki Community Center

The Waikiki Community Center is a nonprofit organization founded in 1978, located in Honolulu, Hawaii. It serves as a central hub for community activities and social services, addressing the needs of families, senior adults, and children living, working, or visiting Waikiki.

Mission

The center's mission is to care for the well-being of its community members, including keiki (children), kupuna (seniors), and the broader community, by fostering connection and growth as part of the ohana (family). It aims to enhance the quality of life for all by providing diverse resources and tools.

Programs and Services

• Preschool Education: The Waikiki Community Center Preschool offers quality early education in a safe and nurturing environment. The program includes a unique service learning initiative, Keiki Building Community, which connects classroom curriculum to real community issues, empowering young children to make a positive impact.

• Senior Programs: The center provides a variety of educational and social activities for seniors to maintain their physical, cognitive, and emotional health. These programs help seniors live independently and avoid premature aging and institutionalization.

• Financial Assistance Programs: WCC offers several initiatives to help stabilize the financial situation of Hawaii residents. This includes rental and utility assistance, emergency savings programs, and the Thrive by 5 Affordable Preschool Initiative, which reduces preschool tuition for qualifying families.

• Food and Nutrition Security: WCC operates an Emergency Food Pantry that supplies nonperishable items to those in need. It also hosts a Free Fresh Food Market in partnership with other organizations.

• Community Initiatives: The center hosts various community programs, such as neighborhood board meetings, and collaborates on environmental projects like bioremediation efforts for the Ala Wai canal. It also maintains a community garden.

Partnerships and Impact

Waikiki Community Center partners with other nonprofits to offer a broader range of services. It relies largely on community donations, receiving less than 10% of its funding from government sources. Over 15,000 individuals participate in its programs annually. Through its diverse activities, the center serves as a vibrant gathering place, fostering unity and cooperation among its members.