Monday marked the start of National Public Health Week, April 1-7, observed by the American Public Health Association. Hawaii counties are also observing the annual event with public events offering and highlighting resources available to the public or offering opportunities to those who want to serve in the health care industry.
The theme this year is “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health, highlighting issues important to improving nationwide health and championing the health of all people and communities across the board.
Here are a few events occurring across the state:
The nonprofit National Alliance on Mental Illness is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the nation dedicated to supporting, advocating for and raising awareness of mental illness. NAMI Hawaii is a state organization with an office on Oahu and affiliates on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Hawaii Island. They offer classes, workshops, support groups and services. Visit the NAMI Hawaii website for more information.
NAMI Hearts and Minds is a wellness program designed to educate and empower individuals to better manage one’s health. Starting in mid-April, they will offer a free five-week class, 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturdays via Zoom in which participants will learn about medical self-advocacy, managing pain and prescriptions, kicking habits, improving sleep, creating a diet that works for the self, symptom management, social support and peer wellness. Those interested in attending can register by emailing info@namihawaii.org.
On April 20 and 27 at 10 a.m., NAMI Family & Friends will offer a free seminar via Zoom to inform people how to support loved ones with mental health conditions. Participants will learn communication skills, prepare for crisis situations and self-care tips. Email info@namihawaii.org with your name, island and contact information.
Hawaii’s public libraries throughout the state will also hold a variety of health and wellness-oriented activities on specific days in April featuring meditation, mindfulness, all-around wellness, helping families find senior care by CareSift, how to find reliable health information and more. Visit the events page.
The Kauai District Health Office will host an open house, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 5, for the public to speak with Hawaii State Department of Health staff about programs and what individuals in the community can do to address public health challenges. The event will be held at 3040 Umi St. in Lihue.
There will be representatives from administrative services, community health workers, vector control as well as public health nurses, epidemiologists, mental health professionals, food safety inspectors, disabilities case managers and microbiologists.
“KDHO staff is looking forward to welcoming everyone at this event and saying ‘mahalo’ to our community and partners for their ongoing support to build a thriving and healthier Kauai,” said Kauai District Health Officer Dr. Janet Berreman in a news release. “Working together to create opportunities to understand and support public health benefits the community as a whole.”
There will also be a Health Clinic Pop-Up at Lihue Christian Church in downtown Lihue, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 15. No appointment is required and all are welcome to get a health checkup at Hoʻola Lahui Mobile Clinic; receive food provided by Hawaii Foodbank Kauai, 10 a.m. to noon; take part in a box lunch talk story at noon; enjoy mobile showers with Project Vision Hawaii; and seek out health resources.
Collaborating with the Hawaii District Health Office of the Hawaii State Department of Health, Hawaii County will hold two health fairs on April 9 and 10.
Health information, resources and health screenings will be available to the public, 11 a.m to 1 p.m. April 9, at Kona Coast Shopping Center at 74-5586 Palani Rd. in Kailua-Kona.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 10, health information and resources, health screenings, entertainment, food trucks and activities will be available at the Hilo State Office building at 75 Aupuni St. in Hilo.
"The impacts of our public health providers are vital to the well-being of our residents,” said Mayor Mitch Roth in a county news release. “It's not just about treating illnesses; it's about promoting wellness, preventing disease, and fostering a community where everyone can thrive. Our commitment to public health is a commitment to caring for each other and ensuring a healthier future for all.”
Hawaii District Health Officer John Kolman, Ph.D. added, “We encourage everyone to join us in celebrating public health and take steps to protect their own well-being and the health of our community.”
Hawaii County and the Department of Health are also partnering with Community First of Hawaii, Inc. on a campaign to educate residents about how public health initiatives easily integrate into daily life and contribute to community well-being.
On the Valley Isle, Maui Health looks to guide people into the health care industry through its second Maui Healthcare Career Fair happening 1 to 4 p.m. April 5 and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 6 at the Maui Memorial Medical Center in Wailuku.
Those seeking to start or expand a career in health care are invited to attend and receive one-on-one guidance from an experienced recruitment specialist, application assistance and on-the-spot interviews for qualified applicants. It’s also an opportunity to learn about the wide range of health care jobs available on Maui and Lanai.
“At Maui Health, we strive to provide more than just a job for our employees, but a fulfilling career,” said Human Resources Director Tara Cole in a news release. “Our Healthcare Career Fair provides an opportunity for you to connect with our team and discover how you can use your passion, skills and talents to make a difference in the health and well-being of our community. Our team can help find a position for you that you’ll truly enjoy, answer your questions, and walk you through the application process.”
Visit the Maui Health website for more information on the health fair and to see available career opportunities.