On a sunny Sunday in late September, Locations Foundation volunteers gathered at Sunset Ranch in Pupukea on Oahu’s North Shore. They came together to support the HUGS (Help, Understanding & Group Support) Celebration of Life. This annual event is for families who have lost a HUGS child. It offers a space to share stories, honor memories, and find comfort among others who understand.

Thanks to the generosity and aloha spirit of our volunteers, HUGS families enjoyed a peaceful day. They were surrounded by fresh mountain air, beautiful scenery, and plenty of warmth and connection. Volunteers set up tents and craft stations, greeted families, served lunch, and guided them on a short walk to the memorial garden. Their efforts helped make the day truly special.

Volunteer Dancetta Feary—who raises Monarch butterflies in her spare time—again donated butterflies. HUGS families released them in honor of their loved ones.

A special mahalo to our volunteer team: Ayumi Yamane, Cari Tanabe, Dancetta Feary, Evelyn Rooney, Jennifer Li, Joe Segal, Maria Vuong, Megumi Nekotani, Priscilla Wassman, Ruth Simmons and Sunny Lee-Oshiro. Their kindness and dedication made a meaningful difference for the HUGS families.

This beautiful and deeply moving event touched everyone in attendance. We were honored to be a part of it.

About HUGS

HUGS was founded in 1982 by volunteers at Unity Church on Oahu. They saw the many challenges faced by families with seriously ill children. These families struggled financially, spiritually, and emotionally. The founders believed no family should go through this journey alone. They envisioned an organization built on support, compassion, and aloha.

Over the years, HUGS has grown to serve families across the state. It now provides both emotional and financial support to help families cope with childhood illness. HUGS serves Hawaii children from birth to age 21 who have been diagnosed with life-threatening conditions. These range from cancer, cardiac issues, and liver and kidney ailments to chromosomal defects.