Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, 1 March 1983 — HAWAIIAN JCs ON THE MOVE [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

HAWAIIAN JCs ON THE MOVE

The latest chapter of the U.S. Jaycees was established less than a year ago by 22 young men who were disturbed by the great amount of media coverage being given to Hawaiian "confrontation groups." While not eondemning the activist approach, these men were of the opinion that their objectives could better be obtained by working cooperatively through the established system. Paul Cathcart, one of the founding members, said "We wanted to provide an alternative role model to young Hawaiians . . . to encourage them to work toward change within the system rather than tearing it down and starting over from scratch." This philosophy is reflected in the National Jaycee Creed (now translated into Hawaiian) whieh affirms "That eeonomie justice ean best be won by free men through free enterprise; That government should be of laws rather than of men; That earth's great treasure lies in human personality; And that service to humanity is the best work of life." According to Honolulu Hawaiian Jaycees President Kali Watson, the original membership of 22 has grown to about 70 in just a few short months. Watson says the organization provides a vehicle for young men concerned with doing things for and within the Hawaiian eommunity. lt enables them to develop leadership skills by taking part in community projects, accepting positions of responsibility within the Jaycees, and benefiting from the experience of others. Members improve their public speaking ability by giving committee reports and participating in a series of "speak up" competitions at meetings. Watson says another valuable benefit is the opportunity to develop new friendships and enjoy the fellowship of men engaged in a wide variety of professions and oeeupations. Members include attorneys, judges, businessmen, government \vorkers, bankers, financial and management consultants, salesmen. corrections officers, firefighters, teachers, stock clerks, musicians and several members of the OH A staff. Among those selected as initial honorary members are OHA Trustees Rockney Freitas, Moses Keale and Joe Kealoha. Although most members are of Hawaiian ancestry, a number of other races are also represented. Membership is open to anyone who meets the age requirements (1835), wants to further the objectives of the organization, learn more about Hawaiian culture and participate in the activities of the Honolulu Hawaiian Jaycees. The group already has completed two highly successful projects . . . the Marchclean-upofanovergrown,almost forgotten heiau in Hawaii Kai, and "Kokua Kaua'i", whieh provided disaster relief to victims of Hurricane Iwa. Future efforts include sponsorship of a Hawaiian eultural/arts festival, establishing a "scared straight" program for young Hawaiians in high crime communities, and sponsorship of an art competition for young Hawaiian artists. Other projects will be in areas such as heakh, education, historic preservation, and highlighting the accomplishments of young Hawaiians. Family Court Judge Richard Lee, president of the State Jaycees, told Ka Wai Ola the Honolulu Hawaiian Jaycees already has made major contributions to the community and within the next few years will be one of the major Jaycee chapters in the state. The group meets on the third Wednesday of every month in the Bishop Estate board room at Kawaiaha'o Plaza, 567 South King Street. Orientation for potential new members is held from 5 pm to 5:30 pm, just before the regular meeting starts. For further information on membership contact: — Jim Moa, 548-8960 - -Dave Perkins, 537-81 1 1 — Alika Neves, 523-6200 Darryl Yagodich, 548-8785

Members of the Honolulu Hawaiian Jaycces clear brush from hidden heiau at Hawai'i Kai.