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Community Support

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2024 GoFishPI Crabbing Weekend in Newport, OR

October 18, 2024

Living Islands began preparations for the much-anticipated crabbing weekend in Newport, Oregon. Guests were warmly welcomed and helped settle into their accommodations after what, for many, had been long journeys. We had begun organizing logistics for the weekend’s activities, ensuring every participant was ready to be a part of this amazing opportunity.

Part of the preparations included setting up some of the crab pots for the following day’s hands-on experience. Volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to gather last-minute materials and ensure everything was in place to make this event both enjoyable and educational.

October 19, 2024


The main event kicked off with a morning meeting. This was our opportunity to introduce attendees to one another, fostering connections among participants from diverse backgrounds who shared a love for the ocean and sustainable practices. We also provided an overview of the day’s activities and safety protocols.

The group then headed to the Newport Municipal Crabbing Pier and the beautiful Yaquina Bay for an immersive crabbing experience. With traps in hand and seasoned community members sharing invaluable insights, everyone got a chance to learn the ins and outs of crabbing. It was not just a learning experience but also a cultural exchange, where stories, techniques, and local knowledge flowed freely among participants.

After a much needed lunch break, the community reconvened for an enriching presentation from an impressive lineup of speakers. Representatives from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, Oregon Sea Grant, Portland Harbor Community Coalition, the City of Portland, and Aunty Shirley De La Cruz shared their expertise on topics ranging from regulations and conservation efforts to sustainable opportunities in marine environments. This session offered a wealth of information that left attendees better informed and inspired to act as advocates & educators of the coastal ecosystem.

To round out the day, we enjoyed a communal meal—a chance to relax, mingle, and reflect on the day’s experiences. The shared meal fostered a sense of unity, emphasizing the importance of community in preserving our indigenous practices despite not being on our indigenous lands.

October 20, 2024


The weekend concluded with a final gathering, where we celebrated the success of the event and raffled off prizes. The gear raffle added a fun and competitive element, with items ranging from practical hand warmers and instant food packs to high-value prizes like machetes and commercial-grade crab pots. The excitement in the room was contagious, and everyone left with smiles and stories to share.

Before parting ways, attendees participated in a feedback session, sharing their experiences and offering suggestions to make future events even better. It was a heartfelt end to a weekend filled with learning, laughter, and new friendships.

Looking Ahead


The 2024 Crabbing Weekend was a resounding success, blending education, hands-on activity, and community engagement into a memorable experience. Living Islands is deeply grateful to all the participants, speakers, and volunteers who made this event possible. We can’t wait to see how we can build on this foundation for future events and continue fostering connections between people and the environment. 

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2024-03-27 Visiting the Arno Atoll Clinics

A Heartfelt Visit to Arno Atoll’s Health Clinics

Last week, the Living Islands Non-Profit team had the privilege of visiting the local health clinics on Arno Atoll in the Marshall Islands. It was an experience that filled us with profound respect and a renewed sense of purpose.

Due to its remote location, Arno Atoll, with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities, faces unique healthcare challenges. The local health clinics serve as a critical lifeline for the island’s inhabitants, providing essential medical services with limited resources. Witnessing the resilience and dedication of the health practitioners there was both humbling and inspiring.

Throughout our visit, we were struck by the stark contrast between the scarcity of resources available and the magnitude of the responsibility shouldered by the local health practitioners. Despite these challenges, they work tirelessly to provide care, demonstrating incredible ingenuity and dedication. Their commitment to their community’s well-being is nothing short of heroic.

As a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Pacific Islands, Living Islands is more committed than ever to supporting these vital health clinics. We are exploring various initiatives to enhance healthcare access and quality on Arno Atoll. This includes supplying equipment, facilitating training, and improving clinic infrastructure. We aim to empower these clinics to continue their essential work under better conditions.

Our visit was a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of our global community and the impact of collective action. We left Arno Atoll inspired by the strength and spirit of its people, particularly the healthcare practitioners who serve with such dedication under challenging circumstances.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the health practitioners of Arno Atoll for welcoming us with open arms and for their unwavering commitment to their community. Your work is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of resilience and compassion. Living Islands looks forward to standing with you as we work together to improve healthcare on the Atoll.

Thank you to everyone who supports Living Islands Non-Profit. Your generosity and belief in our mission make this work possible. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those on Arno Atoll and beyond.

 

Ine, Arno Clinic

Arno, Arno Clinic

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Closing the Tech Gap: Empowering NHPI Communities with Laptops & Tablets!

In this era of rapid technological advancements, it is imperative to bridge the digital divide and ensure everyone can access devices that can empower them. The Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) communities, like many others, have faced challenges in accessing technology and the opportunities it brings. However, through initiatives aimed at equipping NHPI communities with laptops and tablets, we can empower them to embrace the tech revolution and unlock their full potential. Let’s dive into how closing the tech gap can bring about positive change and opportunities for NHPI communities.

 

Bridging the Digital Divide: Empowering NHPI Communities!

Studies have shown that the NHPI communities often face limited access to technology, hindering their ability to fully participate in the digital world. This digital divide exacerbates existing disparities and prevents NHPI individuals from accessing educational resources, job opportunities, and essential services. However, initiatives focusing on closing this divide by providing laptops and tablets to NHPI communities can have a transformative impact.

By empowering NHPI communities with these gadgets, we can open up a world of opportunities. Students can access online educational resources, enabling them to expand their knowledge and skills. This access to digital learning platforms can help bridge educational gaps and empower NHPI students to excel academically. Moreover, with the ability to connect with teachers and classmates remotely, these gadgets can ensure that NHPI students have equal access to quality education, regardless of their geographical location.

Furthermore, closing the tech gap can empower NHPI individuals to explore new career prospects. With laptops and tablets at their disposal, they can access online job portals, digital trainings, and remote work opportunities. This not only enhances their employability but also contributes to the economic growth of their communities. By embracing technology, NHPI individuals can overcome traditional barriers and tap into a wide range of job opportunities, even in industries that were previously inaccessible.

Tech Revolution: Equipping NHPI Communities with Gadgets!

The tech revolution has transformed the way we live, work, and communicate. Equipping NHPI communities with laptops and tablets ensures that they can fully participate in this revolution and reap its benefits. These gadgets provide NHPI individuals with access to information, enabling them to stay connected, informed, and engaged.

In addition to education and employment opportunities, laptops and tablets empower NHPI communities in various other ways. They enable individuals to access healthcare resources, connect with healthcare providers online, and access telemedicine services. This is particularly significant for NHPI individuals living in remote areas with limited access to healthcare facilities. With these gadgets, they can bridge the healthcare divide and ensure better health outcomes for themselves and their families.

Moreover, laptops and tablets also serve as a means of communication and cultural preservation. NHPI communities can use these devices to connect with their heritage, share their stories, and celebrate their traditions. They can access language learning applications, connect with other NHPI individuals worldwide, and preserve their cultural identity. In this way, technology not only empowers NHPI communities but also strengthens their sense of belonging and cultural pride.

Empowering NHPI Communities through Technology!

Closing the tech gap and equipping NHPI communities with laptops and tablets is a pivotal step towards empowering these individuals and ensuring their inclusion in the digital age. By providing equal access to technology, we can bridge the digital divide and unlock a world of opportunities for NHPI communities. The benefits extend beyond education and employment, reaching into healthcare, communication, and cultural preservation. Let us strive to empower NHPI communities with technology, fostering a brighter future where no one is left behind in the tech revolution.

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Meeting with KalGov about Health, Medical Mission, and future support

Living Islands recently had the privilege of meeting with the Kwajalein Atoll Local Government (KalGov) to discuss ongoing and future initiatives to support the community. Key topics included our Medical Mission, which aims to improve healthcare access and resources across the atoll, and our collaboration with the Kwajalein Atoll Sustainability League (KASL) to promote sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

The meeting was a valuable opportunity to align on shared goals and explore new ways Living Islands can support KalGov’s vision for the future. Together, we’re committed to addressing community health needs, enhancing local resources, and fostering sustainable growth across Kwajalein Atoll.

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