 Contact Information
Michael Gleason
1099 Waianuenue Avenue
Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 935-8535
E-mail: mgleason@hiloarc.org |
 |
Agency Mission Statement:
The mission of the Arc of Hilo is to improve the quality of life for people with developmental and other disabilities, who reside on Hawai'i through educational, vocational and skill training as well as employment and residential opportunities.
Funded Program:
Kokua Program: This program helps people with developmental disabilities receive needed services in the short-term, while simultaneously seeking funding for a long-term, stable support services plan.
The Arc of Hilo serves families and children with disabilities who do not have Medicaid referrals and cannot qualify for it or other services due to unique circumstances. The Arc of Hilo will document the need and provide services to these individuals on an interim basis until they do qualify for Medicaid services or have found alternative funding sources to cover this need.
Client Outcome Story: Last year a 21 year old with a developmental disability graduated from high school in Hilo. His single, hard-working mother was not prepared for life after high school for her son. She tried to get him into programs where he was denied services due to being literally one point too high on an IQ test. The mother didn't have an understanding of the appeals process, so her son went without services until she learned of our Kokua Program. He is now enrolled in our Adult Day Health and Employment Training programs. Meanwhile, Wesley Tanigawa, our Direct Services Advocate is assisting the family in reapplying for waiver services and will pursue funding even if denied again, through the appeals process.
