Hawaii Job Challenge Academy

Our final huakaʻi to Waipiʻo was a powerful reminder of the importance of connection—to the land, to culture, and to each other.

Beyond the work, this day was about growth, reflection, and carrying forward the kuleana we’ve been entrusted with.

Mahalo to the Kahakalau ʻohana for your guidance, generosity, and for allowing us to be a part of something so meaningful.

🤍

Our associates had the valuable opportunity to visit our local county leadership, where they engaged with Hawai’i Mayor, Kimo Alameda, and department directors to better understand how county government operates.

Leaders shared about the roles and responsibilities of their respective boards and departments, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how decisions are made, how services are managed, and why systems are structured the way they are.

Our associates asked thoughtful questions—what inspired them to pursue public service, what challenges they face in their roles, and what it truly takes to serve a community. These conversations helped bridge the gap between what the public sees and the work that happens behind the scenes to keep our county running.

Experiences like this are essential in building informed, engaged, and community-minded young leaders. We are grateful for the time, transparency, and dedication shown by our county leaders in investing in the next generation 🤝

*Pictures taken by Associate Baltazar. Awesome Job!*

Mahalo to the Hawaii Police Department Vice/Narcotics Unit for taking the time to connect with our associates.

Officer Rob Segobia, Officer Wyatt Leong, and Kipp Fujimoto led an impactful session on substance abuse, highlighting the adverse effects on physical health, mental well-being, decision-making, and long-term opportunities. These real and honest conversations help build awareness and give our youth a clearer understanding of the consequences and choices they face.

Alongside their K9 partners, they demonstrated how trained units detect narcotics and large sums of currency linked to illegal activity.
More importantly, they shared the deeper reality of narcotics in Hawaiʻi—how substances make their way to the islands, the impact on families and communities, and the long-term consequences that can follow. These conversations matter. They create awareness, build understanding, and help our youth see the bigger picture beyond the moment.

Experiences like this go beyond demonstration—they’re about prevention, education, and empowering the next generation to make informed decisions and lead with purpose.

Mahalo Hilo! 💛🐝

This past week, we held our first fundraiser for Class 04 at Nani Mau Gardens. Alongside other local vendors, we proudly showcased and sold our very own honey and honey/beeswax products made right here on base 🍯✨

Our staff had an awesome time meeting everyone who stopped by, supported us, and helped spread the word about what we do. Your support helps Class 04 continue to grow, learn, and experience new opportunities together 🌱

The Hawaiʻi Job Challenge Academy invites you to explore our selection of locally made honey and beeswax products, thoughtfully crafted right here on base 🐝

🍯 Raw Honey (Wildflower)
We offer two unique batches:
• A naturally sweet variety 🌼
• A richer, slightly smoky flavor 🔥
Available in 2oz, 5.7oz, 8.6oz, and 12oz jars

🍯 Whipped Honey & Honey Butter
Smooth, spreadable, and perfect for everyday use

🕯️ Beeswax Candles & Candle Warmers
Scents: Eucalyptus, Apple, Mango, Blood Orange, Peppermint, Lavender, and Lemongrass

💋 Beeswax Lip Balms
Tropical flavors: Pineapple 🍍 and Coconut 🥥

✨ All products are locally made with care
✨ Proceeds help support and empower our associates

@ NANI MAU GARDENS HILO
APRIL 9-11
9am- 5pm

We’re selling locally made goodies in support of JCA Class 04 💛
Raw honey, whipped honey, honey butter, beeswax candles, lip balms & more — all made right here on base!
Plus handmade jewelry by our amazing staff ✨
Stop by, taste some sweetness, and support us!
NANI MAU GARDENS HILO | April 9–11 | 9AM–5PM

Our March newsletter is out 🌱 highlighting a month full of growth, hands-on learning and community connection.

From classroom instruction 📚to career pathway hands-on training 💪🏼our associates are building skills and experiences that will carry them forward. This month also included our career fair, giving Associates the chance to connect with employers and explore future opportunities 🧳

We also took part in community service, wellness activities, and civic engagement opportunities- continuing to grow not just professionally, but personally 🌟

Mahalo to everyone who contributed and helped make these moments happen. It truly takes a team! 👏🏼

The Academy hosted an exclusive career fair for our associates, providing them with direct exposure to a variety of potential employment opportunities. Associates had the chance to engage with employers, explore different career paths, and gain valuable insight into workforce expectations. Events like these help build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and prepare our associates for success beyond the program. We’re proud to create opportunities that connect our associates with real-world experiences and future career possibilities.

A HUGE THANK YOU to our vendors for supporting our associates and contributing to their success!

HOPE Services Hawaii Inc
Hilo Vet Center
Ho’ola Napua
ALU LIKE, Inc.- Employment and Training Program
Hawai’i Community College Counselor
Sun Construction Inc
Hawai’i CC Apprenticeship
Hawai’i Public Health Institute
Hilo Products Inc.
Maryl Construction
Hawai’i Police Department
County of Hawai’i American Job Center
University of Hawai’i at Hilo- Exploratatory Health Sciences
DLNR/Enforcement Division
US Navy
Hawai’i State Teachers Association
Army
HS Federal Credit Union
Southwest
Clinical Laboratories of Hawai’i