Recognizing our presence, honoring our contributions, and strengthening the path forward for our youth and families.

On April 27, 2026, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners officially proclaimed May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month—a meaningful milestone for our Pasefika youth and community. This recognition represents more than a date on the calendar; it is an acknowledgment of our presence, our contributions, and our right to be seen and heard.

RESOLUTION/PROCLAMATION - Recognizing and Honoring May 2026 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Kitsap County:

WHEREAS, the tens of thousands of Asian Americans and thousands of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders make up 10% of Washington's population and a significant portion of our beloved community here in Kitsap County bringing resources and contributions that are innumerable and priceless; and

WHEREAS, during Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and all year long we celebrate the longstanding presence of AANHPI families here in Kitsap County dating back to the 1800s and the diversity of thought, talent, and culture; and

WHEREAS, these communities faced adversity here in their new home of Kitsap County and across this country as targets of violence, xenophobic policies, housing restrictions, and more, yet their resilience would prove greater than any obstacle they faced. They would survive and overcome again, and again; and

WHEREAS, it is imperative that we as friends and neighbors of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Communities not only pause to celebrate and commemorate, but that we support these communities by understanding the issues facing them, listening to how we might be a part of the solutions, and then following through; and

WHEREAS, we gratefully recognize the innumerable offerings made by generations of AANHPI's from diverse backgrounds as service people, educators, artists, athletes, entrepreneurs, activists, and leaders shaping Kitsap County, and this Country. Let us learn from their culture, their commitment, and their resilience; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners does hereby proclaim May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander's Heritage Month and recognizes the many valuable contributions made by the peoples of the AANHPI communities of Kitsap County and to the United States.

ADOPTED this 27th day of April 2026,

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, Kitsap County, Washington:

Oran Root, Chair

Katherine T. Walters, Commissioner

Christine Rolfes, Commissioner 

For our young people, this moment affirms that their identities, cultures, and stories matter. It signals that they belong—not on the margins, but at the table—where decisions are made, and futures are shaped. For our community, it is a step toward greater visibility, inclusion, and equity across systems that have too often overlooked Pacific Islander voices.

We honor this moment with gratitude and responsibility, knowing it reflects both progress and the ongoing work ahead to ensure our Pasefika communities are recognized, valued, and empowered year-round.

Fa’afetai, Si Yu’us Ma’åse’, Mahalo, Salamat, Malo ‘aupito, Ngā mihi nui, Kinisou, and heartfelt thanks to each of you for your leadership in recognizing and honoring Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Kitsap County. This resolution reflects more than words—it affirms the presence, contributions, and enduring strength of our communities.

We receive this recognition with deep gratitude and humility, honoring the generations who came before us and the pathways they created. We celebrate this moment as a reminder of what is possible when communities are seen, valued, and uplifted.

As we move forward, we remain committed to walking together—strengthening relationships, deepening understanding, and continuing the work of uplifting and advocating for our communities with purpose, unity, and care.

With deep gratitude,
The Voices of Pacific Island Nations (VOPIN) Team 

This resolution matters to our youth because it shapes how they see themselves—and what they believe is possible for their future.

For many AANHPI young people, especially those growing up in spaces where they may feel like the only one, it can be difficult to feel fully seen or understood. When their community is formally recognized by county leadership, it sends a clear message: you belong here. That sense of belonging is not small—it is foundational to confidence, identity, and well-being.

It also provides visibility. Youth are watching who is acknowledged, whose stories are told, and whose contributions are valued. This resolution places AANHPI culture, history, and leadership in a public space, allowing young people to see reflections of themselves in positions of respect and importance. That visibility can influence how they show up in school, in leadership, and in their own aspirations.

Beyond that, it creates validation. The languages, traditions, and experiences that youth carry from home are affirmed—not as something “different” or “other,” but as something meaningful and worthy of celebration. That validation can help young people move from feeling like they have to fit in to feeling proud of who they are.

It also plants a seed of possibility. When youth see their communities recognized, it opens the door to imagining themselves as future leaders, advocates, educators, and changemakers in their own community. It tells them they are not just part of the community—they can help shape it.

At the same time, the importance of this resolution depends on what comes next. For youth, recognition must be followed by opportunity—spaces where their voices are heard, where they are supported, and where they can lead.

So ultimately, this resolution is important because it does more than honor a community—it helps our young people feel seen, valued, and empowered to step into their future with confidence and purpose.

Community Power ~ is the idea that when people in a community come together, they can create real, lasting changes--for themselves, for their neighborhoods, and for future generations!

Because of You, No One Walks Alone

 "When We Connect, We Win!" - Investing in Communities, Strengthening Futures

Real and lasting change happens when communities come together with shared purpose, trust, and vision. The Inatai Foundation continues to demonstrate what meaningful leadership looks like by investing in community-driven solutions that strengthen relationships, uplift local voices, and create pathways for long-term impact.

Through their support and partnership, organizations like VOPIN are better equipped to walk alongside families and communities during some of life’s most challenging moments. Their commitment goes beyond funding—it reflects a deep belief in collaboration, collective care, and the power of communities to lead their own change.

The Inatai Foundation’s leadership reminds us that when we invest in people, nurture connection, and build together, transformation becomes possible. Every partnership, every shared resource, and every act of support helps create stronger foundations for our families and communities to thrive.

Because when communities come together with compassion and purpose, hope grows stronger—and futures become brighter.

The 2026 Constellations Conference in Spokane, Washington - "When We Connect, We Win!"

“I thank my God every time I remember you… because of your partnership.”

We sincerely thank you for your generosity and for partnering with VOPIN. Because of you, students and families are not walking this journey alone. Your support strengthens relationships, sustains our presence in schools, and creates pathways toward belonging, confidence, and opportunity.

As we move forward together, we are especially grateful for your continued belief in our community. You are more than a supporter—you are part of the village that walks alongside our youth and families with care, compassion, and commitment. Because of your partnership, students feel seen, families find support during difficult moments, and hope continues to grow in places where it is needed most.

Together, we are uplifting lives, advocating for equity, and building a future grounded in hope, resilience, and opportunity for the next generation.

Fa’afetai, Si Yu’us Ma’åse’, Mahalo, Salamat, Ngā mihi, Malo 'aupito, Kinisou—and heartfelt thanks for walking this journey with us. 

When Vadin transferred to Bremerton High School from Olympic High School as a sophomore, he entered unfamiliar hallways and a new environment. For many students, that change can feel overwhelming. For Vadin, it was simply the next step forward. He arrived with energy, humor, and a willingness to be himself completely.

It didn’t take long for him to become a well-known and valued figure on campus. Whether he’s walking through the halls, attending school events, or laughing with classmates, Vadin exudes a natural confidence that draws people in. When he’s not at school, people notice. “Where’s Vadin?” his classmates ask. That simple question says everything; his presence makes a difference. With his quick wit and friendly smile, Vadin has a way of helping others feel seen, included, and uplifted.

This year, Vadin was named one of the nine Boys & Girls Clubs’ 2026 Junior Youth of the Year honorees—an achievement that highlights his growth, leadership, and determination. He doesn’t shy away from challenges. Whether he’s solving a math problem, learning a new Pasefika song or dance, or confidently stepping up to give a speech, Vadin approaches each opportunity with courage and enthusiasm.

I’ll never forget the first time I met him. Without hesitation, he pulled off his hoodie to reveal a T-shirt that boldly read, “I Love Guam!” It was a declaration of Pasefika culture pride. Born in Guam, Vadin proudly embraces his Pasefika roots. He’s a devoted fan of the “Usos,” the Samoan WWF wrestlers, and with a smile, he’ll tell you he’s Samoan from head to toe. His cultural pride is not quiet; it’s joyful, confident, and woven into who he is.

Vadin lives with Down syndrome, but that is just one part of his story. It does not define his leadership, humor, or dreams for the future. What defines him is his resilience, authenticity, and the way he shows up each day with heart. Vadin aspires to become a teacher and return to Guam to teach at his old elementary school.

Vadin reminds us that leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about courage, identity, and the confidence to stand tall in who you are. As he approaches the finish line and prepares to graduate with the Class of 2026 this June, his presence will truly be missed.

There is a Samoan proverb: “E pa’u se toa, a tu se toa” — “One warrior falls, another warrior rises.” As Vadin steps into his next chapter, we know his journey is far from over. He leaves a legacy of joy, pride, and leadership, and his story will continue to inspire those who follow.

Every gift you give creates a ripple of hope.

It shows up in the quiet moments—a student opening a backpack filled with supplies they didn’t have before, a family resting a little easier knowing they can stay in their home, a young person walking into school feeling prepared, supported, and seen. Your support brings stability where there was uncertainty, resources where there were gaps, and encouragement where it’s needed most.

With your generosity, you’re not just giving—you’re opening doors, easing burdens, and helping dreams take shape.

$10–$25 puts essential supplies into a student’s hands—so they can show up ready to learn, participate, and believe in their ability to succeed.

$50+ helps provide transportation for students and families—making it possible to get to school, work, and critical appointments. It’s more than a ride; it’s access to opportunity and connection.

$100+ helps stabilize a family—supporting housing, easing food insecurity, and ensuring children have the tools and technology they need to stay on track in school. It helps lift the impossible burden of choosing between basic needs and a child’s future.

And making a difference doesn’t only come through financial support. You can also give your time—as a mentor, tutor, interpreter, or volunteer—helping strengthen the community that surrounds and uplifts our youth.

Together, we are building a community where young people feel supported, families feel stable, and futures feel possible.

With deep gratitude—Fa’afetai tele lava, Mahalo, Si Yu’os Ma’ase, Salamat, Malo e lelei, Kinisou, Ngā mihi nui, Sulang, and thank you for believing in what’s possible. 

How compassion, connection, and community support continue to make a difference across Kitsap County

Across Kitsap County, families are doing everything they can to hold steady during a season of rising costs and growing uncertainty. Parents are stretching every dollar further than ever before, balancing rent, groceries, transportation, childcare, and healthcare while trying to create stability for their children. Behind many closed doors are quiet sacrifices—parents skipping meals so their children can eat, students working late hours to help support their households, and families carrying stress that often goes unseen.

And yet, amid these challenges, we continue to witness extraordinary resilience.

We see students showing up to school determined to succeed even when life outside the classroom feels overwhelming. We see families leaning on one another, neighbors sharing resources, and community members stepping forward to help however they can. In difficult times, the true strength of a community is revealed not in what it has, but in how deeply it cares for one another.

At VOPIN, we believe no family should have to navigate hardship alone. Sometimes support looks like helping keep a family housed. Sometimes it means connecting a student with school supplies, transportation, or simply a trusted adult who listens. Often, the smallest acts of care create the greatest impact—restoring dignity, stability, and hope when they are needed most.

This work is only possible because of community.

Whether through volunteering, checking in on a neighbor, or making a monthly donation, each act of generosity helps strengthen the network of care surrounding our youth and families. A gift of just $10 a month can help provide critical support during moments of crisis and remind families that they are seen, valued, and supported.

Together, we can continue building a community where compassion leads, hope grows, and every family has the opportunity to move forward with dignity and strength. 

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