The Kohala Institute’s GRACE Center will soon see a renovation due to a $2,679,000 Community Facility Direct Loan. GRACE, short for Gratitude, Respect, Accountability, Courage and Engagement, is the mission of the center designed for people to explore and connect to nature and their surroundings.
“The GRACE Center will bring a number of opportunities right to our rural North Hawaii residents,” said Chris Kanazawa, USDA Rural Development State Director for Hawaii and the Western Pacific. “A core function of the center in this area will be serving as a distance learning facility. This will allow the nearly 2,000 residents to participate in classes with educational institutions such as the University of Hawaii at Hilo and Arizona State University without a commute or having to leave their homes in pursuit of more educational opportunities.”
The multi-faceted center will also support workforce development training allowing instructors from across the island state and nation to provide educational and vocational training to local residents. Additionally, local farmers will be able to process their products in a certified kitchen.
The project is also projected to create 20 jobs.
President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President's leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America's economy, small towns and rural communities.
USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values. President Obama and Agriculture Secretary Vilsack are committed to a smarter use of federal resources to foster sustainable economic prosperity and ensure the government is a strong partner for businesses, entrepreneurs and working families in rural communities.