Wai'anae summer tech program accepting applications

Representative Maile Shimabukuro is announcing a new summer program on the Wai'anae Coast for teens and young adults to learn technology skills and get paid for it.

ALU LIKE is accepting applications for the 30-hour per week program that would earn a participant $7.25 an hour. Managed and directed by the Hawaii Technology Institute, the six-week program has slots for 30 participants and will start on June 22, 2009. Participants must be between 14 and 24 years of age and meet low income requirements. Classes will be held at Ulu Ke Kukui, the transitional housing complex. Alu Like, Inc. is funding the program.

"Wai'anae residents really need this type of program," said Rep. Shimabukuro. "Most of our youth are unable to travel to Honolulu to take computer tech classes and some just can't afford to take classes and not work. This program gives our youth the best of both worlds: To earn while they learn!"

During the summer program, students will design and modify educational game prototypes. They will be considered "employees" and will be expected to be punctual and fulfill their assigned responsibilities. In the process of designing and modifying the game prototypes, students will learn to improve both personal and professional communication skills, work well in a group, amicably resolve conflict, enhance computer skills, make and deliver presentations, and more.

"As a Wai'anae Coast resident, I am so very thrilled and excited about having the summer tech program right here in our neck of the woods," said Naomi Digitaki, President and CEO of Hawaii Technology Institute. "The program presents immense opportunities for growth and accomplishments for the young participants."

For more information, please call Lavonne Sexton at 808-522-2700 ext. 26.
To register for the program, please call Serena Kyi-Yim or Robert Velligas of ALU LIKE at 535-6700