As we approach the end of the 2025–26 academic year, VOPIN’s Navigating Education (NE) Program celebrates the incredible accomplishments of our students. For more than five years, our Education Navigators have walked alongside students at Bremerton High School and Mt. View Middle School, providing guidance, encouragement, and support through both challenges and successes.

Our students come from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and journeys, yet they share a common hope: to live in a world where they feel seen, valued, and that they truly belong. Throughout this year, we have witnessed remarkable growth in their confidence, resilience, and determination. Whether overcoming academic obstacles, building meaningful relationships, or taking the next steps toward their future goals, our students continue to demonstrate the strength and potential that exists within every young person when they are supported by a caring community.

Their successes remind us that belonging is more than a feeling. It is the foundation upon which hope, achievement, and opportunity are built. Together, we are creating spaces where students can thrive, discover their strengths, and envision a future filled with possibilities.

Fa’afetai, Si Yu’us Ma’åse’, Mahalo, Salamat, Malo ‘aupito, Ngā mihi nui, Kinisou, and heartfelt thanks to each of you for being part of this journey. We celebrate what we have built together and give thanks for the resilience and care that define our collective community. As we move forward, we do so united; stronger, more connected, and grounded in love—ready to continue uplifting, advocating, and shaping what comes next.

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

Congratulations, Edith Hopper, as the 2026 VOPIN Scholarship Recipient! 

Edie's journey with VOPIN's Navigating Education Program began during her junior year at Bremerton High School. From the start, she stood out as a student with determination, curiosity, and a clear vision for her future. She embraced every opportunity to learn, grow, and challenge herself, demonstrating the kind of perseverance that inspires those around her.

In 2026, Edie will graduate with the Bremerton High School Class of 2026 while simultaneously earning her Associate Degree in General Studies from Olympic College—an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects years of hard work, discipline, and commitment to her goals. This fall, she will continue her educational journey at Washington State University, where she plans to pursue a degree in Forensic Accounting.

Edie is the third Bremerton High School student to receive a VOPIN scholarship, joining a growing legacy of young leaders who are breaking barriers, pursuing higher education, and creating new opportunities for themselves and their communities. Her success is not simply measured by academic achievement; it reflects the confidence, resilience, and sense of purpose she has developed along the way.

Since the launch of the Navigating Education Program, VOPIN has awarded five scholarships to deserving students. Our scholarship program is intentionally connected to our internship program, providing students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, gain professional experience, and serve their communities. Through mentorship, hands-on learning, and educational support, students are empowered to turn their aspirations into achievable goals.

Edie's story reminds us of what is possible when young people are surrounded by encouragement, opportunity, and a community that believes in their potential. As she prepares for this exciting new chapter, we celebrate her accomplishments and look forward to seeing the impact she will make in the years ahead. Her journey is a powerful reminder that when students are given the support they need, their dreams can become a reality.

A Journey of Courage and Confidence

This June, Vadin Guerrero will cross the stage as a proud member of the Bremerton High School Class of 2026. For many, graduation marks the end of a chapter. For Vadin, it is another milestone in a journey defined by resilience, joy, and determination.

Since joining VOPIN, Vadin has become a familiar and beloved presence on campus. Known for his humor, confidence, and welcoming spirit, he has a unique ability to bring people together and make others feel valued. His classmates often notice when he's not around, a testament to the impact he has on those around him.

This year, Vadin was recognized as one of the Boys & Girls Clubs' 2026 Junior Youth of the Year honorees, reflecting his leadership and willingness to embrace new challenges. Whether learning a new dance, giving a speech, or supporting his peers, Vadin approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and courage.

As he prepares for graduation, Vadin reminds us that success is not measured by obstacles overcome, but by the strength, character, and heart we bring to the journey. We are proud of all he has accomplished and excited to see what lies ahead for this remarkable young man.

Your support helps students show up ready to learn and helps families stay stable during difficult moments. With your generosity, you are not just giving—you are opening doors, easing burdens, and helping young people believe in what is possible.

$10–$25 provides school supplies so a student can learn with confidence.
$50+ helps with transportation to school, work, or critical appointments.
$100+ supports families facing housing instability, food insecurity, or urgent needs.

You can also give your time as a mentor, tutor, interpreter, or event volunteer—helping strengthen the village that uplifts our youth and families.

Together, we can build a community where Pasefika youth feel supported, empowered, and ready to thrive.

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.

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!

Through our partnership with Olympic Connect, VOPIN’s Family Services: System of Care program has been able to meet families and individuals across Kitsap County in some of their most difficult moments, and walk alongside them with compassion, dignity, and care.

Since beginning this work, we have supported over a hundred unique people. In March and April alone, we have engaged and connected with 30 individuals, up from 25 in January and February. Behind that number are families facing eviction, parents trying to keep the lights on, individuals navigating court systems, caregivers searching for resources, and community members simply trying to make it through another day. Through the work of our Care Navigators, we have helped prevent evictions, pay off utility balances, support moves, provide essential supplies, and connect people to food, infant items, clothing, propane, and other urgent needs.

This work has never been only about forms, referrals, or funding. It is about presence. It is sitting with someone and listening, even at 10:00 p.m., after work hours, because they needed someone to hear them. It is encouraging someone not to give up when every door feels closed. It is accompanying clients to applications, court visits, appointments, and resource meetings so they do not have to face those moments alone.

This work is also deeply rooted in collaboration. We have partnered with community leaders, advocates, service providers, and neighbors who share the same commitment: making sure people get what they need when they need it most. Together, we have worked to remove barriers, build trust, and respond with care when families are in crisis.

At the heart of VOPIN’s Family Services: System of Care program is the belief that every person deserves to be treated with dignity, every family deserves support, and no one should have to navigate hardship alone. Through Olympic Connect, we have been able to live out that belief in real and practical ways: by showing up, donating our time and resources, listening deeply, advocating fiercely, and doing everything we can to help our community keep going.

We are honored to do this work in Kitsap County, and we remain committed to walking with our families, our elders, our youth, and our neighbors with compassion, humility, and hope.

Because of You, No One Walks Alone

Thank you for your generosity and partnership with VOPIN. Because of your support, students and families do not have to walk their journeys alone. Your gifts help us show up in schools, strengthen relationships, and create opportunities for youth and families to thrive.

As we look ahead, we are grateful for your belief in our community and your commitment to walking alongside us. Together, we continue to build hope, belonging, and brighter futures for the next generation.

VOPIN remains committed to supporting families, connecting them to resources, and ensuring every child feels seen, valued, and supported—especially during difficult times.

You can help continue this work. A gift of just $10 a month provides culturally responsive support to students and families when they need it most.

Together, we can ensure no family faces life's challenges alone.

Become a monthly donor today and help turn compassion into lasting impact. 

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