September 2025 Newsletter
Holding Steady in the Ups & Downs of Nonprofit Work
Talofa, Hafa Adai, Aloha, Ran annim, Kumusta, Mālō e lelei, Kia Orana, Kia ora, Hola, and Hello to our VOPIN community!
In recent months, we’ve experienced a true roller coaster—moments of joy alongside sobering reminders of the challenges still before us. Through it all, one truth endures: our community grounds us, strengthens us, and carries us forward.
Amid shifting economic conditions and widening inequalities, many families continue to face difficult choices between rent, groceries, and medicine. These pressures deepen existing disparities and weigh heavily on the youth we serve. Yet even in the face of hardship, unity remains our greatest strength.
VOPIN stands firm in its mission to provide culturally responsive services that eliminate educational and opportunity inequities. We continue to serve as a bridge—connecting students, families, schools, and the broader community—so that every child feels seen, supported, and valued.
Community Power
When people come together, they create real, lasting change—for themselves, their neighborhoods, and future generations. VOPIN’s staff work tirelessly to connect families to vital supports such as food, utilities, rent assistance, and other essential services. These efforts help families stay stable while giving children the chance to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Because of the generosity of our partners and donors, families like James’s, Emma’s, and Sophie’s are finding hope and stability during difficult times:
“James, a single father of four, avoided eviction through timely intervention and regained the stability his family needed.”
“Emma, expecting her first child, found housing security and peace of mind through VOPIN’s support.”
“Sophie, a survivor with two children on IEPs, moved into a safer home and began rebuilding her family’s future.”
Your generosity turns fear into stability and despair into hope. A monthly gift of just $10 can make a lasting difference for families like these.
Youth Power and Voices
As the new school year begins, our Navigating Education programs at Bremerton High School and Mountain View Middle School are in full swing. Staffing changes, schedule adjustments, and the challenges of transition haven’t stopped our dedicated team from showing up every day to guide and uplift students.
Already, we’re seeing growth—students attending mentoring sessions, asking for academic help, and forming meaningful bonds. These small steps are the seeds of transformation. Yet many Pasefika families still face steep barriers: poverty, unstable housing, and limited access to resources that directly affect their children’s education.
Pasefika youth carry immense strength, culture, and resilience. With the right support, they not only succeed in school—they lift up their families and communities for generations to come.
No child should have to choose between survival and success. Your ongoing support makes that vision possible.
Become a Monthly Donor – Help a child thrive for just $10 a month.
What’s Happening in the Community
Oktoberfest Resource Fair – September 28, 2025 • 2–5 PM • Bainbridge Island Senior/Community Center
Discover Kingston: Community Open House – September 29, 2025 • 4–7 PM • Village Green Community Center
Help Fuel Dreams Through Education
Unleash your inner hero and make a lasting impact on Pasefika youth. Every contribution fuels opportunity:
$50 supports family transportation
$100 keeps a phone connected for job or school updates
$250–$500 bridges urgent utilities or medical bills
$1,000 keeps a family safely housed
Beyond giving, you can volunteer as a mentor, tutor, interpreter, or event supporter—each role helping to strengthen the foundation of our community.
With deep gratitude—Fa'afetai tele, Mahalo, Si Yu'os Ma'ase, Salamat, Mālō e lelei, Kinisou, Ngā mihi nui ki a koe, Sulang, and Thank you.
Together, we are building a future where every child can thrive, every family feels supported, and every voice is heard.
