Hawaii Kids at Work - Hawaii's only non-profit parent-governed daycare center

The foundation of the Hawaii Kids at Work program is a nurturing environment with the philosophical approach that all children are deserving of, and thrive on, being treated in a respectful manner. HKAW’s strength is, undoubtedly and unequivocally, its caregivers. Their extensive experience, their caring and loving approach, and the extreme loyalty they have for the program is unsurpassed. Five of the staff has been employed with HKAW for ten years or more. This loyalty speaks volumes for the Ohana that HKAW has created - therein lies the magic of Hawaii Kids at Work…

		Lora Villegas (providing loving care since 1990) Caregiver Lora has been with HKAW before it was HKAW! ”I have always been caring for children and I love my job… I knew this is what the Lord wanted me to do… Childcare for infants and toddlers in the state of Hawaii is very limited and to find a good one, is very stressful for any parent. HKAW has become a very fine establishment over the years and has played a critical role in my choosing Child Care as my career.”
		Sinira Vaiaoga (providing loving care since 1992) Caregiver Sinira leads our two’s program for keiki 24-36 months old. “I love working here because it feels like your second Ohana. The parents leave their children knowing they are in good hands… a lot of the aunties are old-timers with HKAW because they feel a strong bond with the children. That’s why I love working here – it’s not only a job - there are so many rewards from the children, the parents, and the staff.”
		Grace Tabanera (providing loving care since 1992) Caregiver Grace is a part-time teacher in our two's program and enjoys reading to the children and involving them in learning activities. "We do our best to bond with each child in our group and provide loving and nurturing experiences so that the children feel secure and loved."
		Vina Villegas (providing loving care since 1993) Caregiver Just returning to HKAW after the birth of her first child, Kai, Vina watches over the little ones in our infants program. "After being a part of such a wonderful program all these years, I couldn't imagine sending my son anywhere else when I returned to work. I am so thankful that I can bring Kai to work with me and see him throughout the day, even though he is in another classroom."
		Evelyn Uyeunten (providing loving care since 1994) Caregiver Evelyn is a also a caregiver in our infants room. " I just love taking care of the babies and watching them develop into toddlers. They are so adorable at this age."
		Dorleen Kansou (providing loving care since 2004) Caregiver Aide Dorleen works in our very, very busy One Year Old Classroom. "I've been working at HKAW for three years. "What can I say? I love it! I love the children, the parents and the other staff. It's great to be part of this ohana."
		Kaori Nakashima Caregiver Aide Originally from Japan, Kaori has an AA in Early Childhood Education and enjoys watching the children groworking in the two's room. "Watching the children grow from babies into well adjusted little people gives me such a great feeling inside."
		Judy Joseph Caregiver Aide Having recently joined the infants room, Auntie Judy loves singling and reading to the babies. "Their smiles and coos make my work so much fun."
		Dolly LaTouf Lead Caregiver Dolly began working at HKAW while pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education at HCC. "I was fortunate to be able to do my practicum here and then stay on as staff for an additional 2 years. I left HKAW in March of 2006 to pursue working with children with special needs, which I absolutely adored. After awhile I realized how much I missed the babies at HKAW and applied to return. I really feel at home here and plan to be around for a very long time."
		Lori Lussier (providing leadership and loving care from 1994-2004 and again since 2005) Executive Director No list of the HKAW staff would be complete without our wonderful Executive Director. Lori has an extensive Early Childhood education background, and years of practical experience. She is what makes our program “tick.”