A Volunteer's Hands Create Security and Dignity
Sometimes, the biggest impact comes from the smallest details.
Thanks to funding from the Harris United Methodist Church Global Ministries – Missionary Effort Fund, Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center (LMPSC) was able to purchase additional lockers for senior center participants. The grant, awarded last year, made it possible to provide a secure place for kūpuna to store their personal belongings while enjoying programs and services at the Center.
When the shipment arrived, however, it brought more than just lockers. The boxes contained hundreds of individual parts, countless nuts and bolts, no assembly instructions, and more than 600 pounds of materials waiting to be transformed into something useful.
Fortunately, one dedicated volunteer stepped forward.
Gerald “Gerry” Arens generously donated more than two and a half days of his time—including two weekdays and a Saturday—to assemble each locker and securely mount them to the wall. His patience, craftsmanship, and willingness to serve turned a daunting project into a lasting resource that will benefit seniors for years to come.
The completed lockers are more than convenient storage—they provide peace of mind. With a safe place to keep their belongings, participants can fully enjoy the classes, activities, and friendships that make LMPSC feel like home.
Gerry’s commitment to serving others extends beyond Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi. He is also active at Sacred Hearts Parish and volunteers with EOA’s State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, continuing to make a difference throughout our community.
We are deeply grateful to the Harris United Methodist Church Global Ministries – Missionary Effort Fund for investing in the well-being of our kūpuna and to Gerry for donating his time and talents. Together, they remind us that acts of generosity—whether through funding or volunteering—help create spaces where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and aloha.
