This resilient young woman grew up in the foster care system. Despite the challenges she faced, she always held onto hope and determination. Her life took a positive turn when she joined Ohana's Work & Job Readiness Program, a program designed to provide foster youth and special needs adults with the tools they need to succeed in the workforce. 

She began her journey a couple months ago as a barista at Hanai Peoria City Hall when the location first opened. This was more than just a job for her; it was an opportunity to gain valuable work experience and life skills. With the guidance and support of Ohana's Life Skills Facilitator and Youth in Transition Coordinator, she began on a transformative series that taught her various employment-related topics, including building a resume, practice interviews, dressing and preparing for a job, interacting with co-workers and supervisors, and job searching.

She embraced every opportunity to learn and grow, and applied for jobs with confidence and enthusiasm, along with her peers.

Her hard work paid off. As part of the Brew Crew at Hanai Peoria City Hall, she honed her skills in time management, budgeting, and responsibility. Her determination and perseverance led her to achieve a significant milestone—saving enough money to buy her own car. This accomplishment was a testament to her growth and the support she received from Ohana and Hanai.

Hanai Peoria City Hall, a social enterprise dedicated to supporting foster youth, played a crucial role in this youth’s journey. The establishment provides young adults who have aged out of the foster care system with valuable work experience and life skills. 100% of the proceeds from Hanai Peoria City Hall go directly to Friends of Ohana programs, further supporting foster youth on their journey to becoming successful adults.

In Hawaiian culture, the concept of "Hãnai" embodies the idea that it takes a village to raise a child.Hanai Peoria City Hall and Ohana are part of that village, stepping in to support the most vulnerable children in our community. They not only provide employment opportunities but also mentor and guide youth in the foster care system, helping them develop into a hardworking and passionate workforce.

Her story is a shining example of how Ohana's programs and services make a significant impact. Her journey from foster care to buying her own car through hard work and dedication proves that with the right support and opportunities, foster youth can achieve great things. At Hanai Peoria City Hall, every cup of coffee brewed is a step toward creating dignity, work opportunities, and purpose for Arizona’s foster kids. 

We are proud to be part of this youth’s journey and look forward to seeing her continue to thrive and inspire others. Your support helps create success stories like her’s, making a real difference in the lives of foster youth. Thank you for being part of our Hãnai, our extended family, and for helping us fulfill our mission of doing good for others.