As a resident of Hilo for over 40 years, Pomai enjoys the opportunity to assist her fellow community members in sharing the programs and services available at AILH. In 2012, she initially came to AILH Hilo as a consumer looking for assistance with housing and social recreational needs. She began attending support group meetings and soon after, became one of AILH’s most valuable volunteers. She is delighted to rejoin the workforce, after being retired for twelve years, and is thrilled to join the AILH Hilo ohana as their Receptionist/Clerical Assistant.
Pomai’s prior experience includes work in the nonprofit and business sector; working for Head Start, Hawaii State Third Circuit Family Court, and the Hawaii Centers for Independent Living. She was also employed for over 10 years as the Administrative Assistant to the former President/CEO of Dolphin Press. Pomai received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from University of Hawaii – Hilo.
Caregiving has long been in Pomai’s blood as she cared for her mother who had diabetes, dementia, and cardiac problems. She also served as a caregiver for an elderly man who was a former professor of Theology and Linguistics, as he lived with dementia.
Pomai believes that the spirit of Aloha is embodied by all of the employees and volunteers of AILH who extend their hands and hearts out to assist persons with disabilities in helping them to live independently with success. Her message to her AILH ohana is: Mahalo ‘ia kakou a me ke aloha pumehana wau (thank you all with my profound love).
