Shining the Light on Our SMP Hawaii Volunteers!
In celebration of National Volunteer Appreciation Week, SMP Hawaii proudly recognizes and honors the incredible contributions of our dedicated Volunteer Team.
Our volunteers are truly amazing — serving as counselors, exhibitors, presenters, information distributors, administrative support, and much more. They also take on special projects aligned with their unique skills, experience, and passions. We simply cannot thank our Priceless People enough!
Their work exemplifies our local program logo – the Kukui Nut, symbolizing the shining light of conviction and commitment to caring for Hawaii’s aging communities.
A Look Back Since the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Story of Service, Aloha and Resilience
- Over 31,000 hours of service have been contributed by SMP Hawaii volunteers statewide.
- At the estimated national volunteer hour rate, this equates to approximately $1,038,190 in saved payroll dollars.
- Our volunteers reached 38,246 beneficiaries, along with their families and caregivers, even amid the challenges of the pandemic and personal hardships.
- They empowered older adults, their ‘ohana, and caregivers to recognize and prevent health care fraud, errors, and abuse through Medicare education.
- 527 community and virtual events were conducted, including presentations, outreach, and resource exhibits in every county.
- 2,464 individuals received personalized counseling from our trained volunteer team.
- Volunteers helped kūpuna save over $4,000 from false or incorrect Medicare billing claims.
- Every volunteer receives initial and ongoing training to continue serving our communities with skill and care.
Why SMP Hawaii Volunteers Shine So Bright
SMP Hawaii volunteers go beyond simply sharing information — they are invested in uplifting and protecting their own communities. Their efforts are especially vital for rural and remote areas across our islands.
Volunteering offers a host of benefits:
- Creates meaningful connections, helping to reduce isolation and its effects.
- Builds self-confidence and trust – in themselves and in others.
- Promotes health and wellness by keeping volunteers active and engaged.
- Fosters lifelong friendships with people of similar and diverse interests, contributing to overall growth.
- Encourages independence while building networks of mutual support.
- Keeps the mind active through ongoing learning and real-life application.
- Volunteers become knowledgeable about their own Medicare benefits and can recognize scams or errors.
- Enhances valuable life skills, such as communication, technology use, time management, and problem-solving.
Mahalo Nui Loa!
To each of our SMP Hawaii Volunteers – mahalo for your unwavering dedication, determination, and drive to ensure Hawaii’s older adults, their ‘ohana, and caregivers are informed, educated, and empowered.
Together, as one team, we are keeping Hawaii safe.
