Kauai Food Bank

NAWILIWILI — If can, can.

That familiar phrase has not only powered the food drives conducted by the Kaua‘i Food Bank. On Thursday, the Kaua‘i Food Bank was selected as the Kaua‘i Vocational Rehabilitation 2009 Employer of the Year.

“‘If can, can’ is the mantra of the Kaua‘i Food Bank and they embrace this concept in all they do for our island community,” said Debi Matsumoto, Kaua‘i VR counselor, in her nomination for the honor. “Our Kaua‘i Food Bank is renown in their unwavering commitment in helping to feed the people of Kaua‘i, but beyond that, they have also been a resource to other agencies on the island, providing support for those in need of vocational and social rehabilitation.”

The award, accompanied by a state senate commendation presented by Senate Majority Leader Gary Hooser, D-Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau, was reason enough for the Kaua‘i Food Bank people to pause, only briefly, in its efforts at the Fall Food and Fund Drive which launched last week and highlighted by the collection of all but $5 of its $13,000 Food Day Collection drive from the various collection sites around the island on Oct. 17.

“We really appreciate the Kaua‘i Food Bank,” said Brenda Viado, the Kaua‘i director of the state’s Department of Human Services Vocational Rehabilitation. “The food bank gives clients the opportunity to learn new skills as well as an opportunity through its ‘can do’ attitude.”

Hooser said he was excited to extend his personal congratulations and appreciation to not only the Kaua‘i Food Bank, but to the Vocational Rehabilitation staff as well.

“This is important work they do,” Hooser said. “I appreciate all the work and effort they put forth in their belief of giving everyone a chance.”

Under the guidance of Executive Director Judy Lenthall, countless volunteer and on-the-job training opportunities have been provided to persons with visual, physical and mental impediments, the nomination form states.

Kelvin Moniz, operations manager, and Analyn Flores, accountant, are always open to meeting with potential new hires and believe in giving everyone a chance.

They have always provided various accommodations such as modifying job tasks or work shifts to meet individual client needs which has resulted in many successful placements over the years, states the Senate commendation.

“Everyone has talent,” Lenthall said, pointing out that many of the food bank’s staff has come from agencies. “They just need the opportunity to succeed. If you don’t try, you never succeed.”