Palama Settlement

“For their review, the form 990 is provided to the board prior to its submission to the irs.”

“Palama's conflict of interest policy is discussed during new trustee orientation. A signed copy of the policy is kept on file for key staff and volunteers, and trustees. Should potential conflicts of interests arise, the trustee is given the opportunity to disclose all material facts. Depending on the conflict, the trustee may recuse him/herself from a meeting or vote.”

“The executive director's compensation was reviewed and approved by the board of directors. Comparable data such as form 990 of other organizations that are similar in size was used. The process was documented in the minutes and personnel file, and was last undertaken in 2021.”

“Palama annually renews its registration with state of hawaii's department of commerce and consumer affairs and the attorney general's office and the 990 is therefore public record. Upon request, palama will make all information available to requesting parties.”

“Recreation programs are provided for low to moderate-income families and individuals, at-risk youth, and the elderly. Programs for youth include learn-to-swim classes/free swimming, after-school drop-in activities, and a competitive sports program that requires attendance at a weekly academic center. The senior program draws about 200 participants who are registered in line dancing, tai chi, zumba, chair yoga, mah jong, hula, sewing classes, and watercolor. The program is volunteer-driven with seniors serving as coordinators and instructors.”

“Palama's community services program (csp) provides emergency services to the residents of the surrounding low-income neighborhood. These include an emergency food pantry and in partnership with other agencies, emergency financial assistance for rent or past-due utility bills. During the summer, palama settlement provides daily hot lunches to its summer programs through participation in the department of education, child nutrition branch, and summer food service program. In addition, free school lunches were given to neighborhood children who need food.”

“Our primary educational activity besides tutoring our students in the athletic program and from the community is our digital arts academy. Due to continued covid-19 restrictions during 2021, these classes were conducted over zoom. They served around 30 kids in the community, ages 6 to 19. This was a time of transition for our education class, which led us to host most of our classes online over zoom with minimal in-person classroom activities. Our education program also includes supporting students in the community by providing scholarships for high school and college students.”

“This process has not changed from the prior year.”