Hawaii Youth Impact Program 2019

By Roy Yamaguchi
JULY, 2019

My summer is off to a great start.  I just had the honor of helping my friend and National Football League veteran, Riki Ellison with his Youth Impact Program.  Riki founded the program in 2006 to provide positive, life changing experiences for at-risk youth across the country. It is a great program and involves the University of Hawaii, the military, and local business.

The Youth Impact Program is a result of many years of hard work and determination from the community. This is the YIP’s third year in Hawaii, and I have to say that this has been the most inspiring year for me so far.  We are all proud to be a part of making a significant difference in the lives of these young men. I am confident that the boys leave the program with a new perspective and leadership skills that will contribute to the betterment of society as they move through life.  I can’t wait for next year’s program and the opportunity to help even more special youths in 2020. For more information about the Youth Impact Program, please visit www.youthimpactprogram.org.   

Each year, I reach out to my colleagues and ask for their kokua to provide breakfast and lunch for these students.  For many, these are the only nourishing meals they will have for the day. I cannot thank all of the restaurant partners enough for supporting this great program.

Alan Wong’s 

Big City Diner

Diamond Head Market

DK Steakhouse & Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Highway Inn

Hula Grill

Koko Head Café

Mariposa

McDonald’s Fort Street Mall

Murphy’s Bar and Grill

MW

Pancakes & Waffles

Rainbow Drive-In

Royal Hawaiian Hotel

Sodexo

Stripsteak Waikiki & The Street Food Hall by Michael Mina

The Kahala Hotel & Resort

The Pig & The Lady

Tiki’s Grill & Bar

Zippy’s McCully & Zippy’s Kapahulu