Police Host First-Ever Kupuna Day in Kona

The Hawaiʻi Police Department’s Kona Community Policing Section proudly welcomed more than 40 kūpuna to the Kealakehe Police Station on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, for the department’s first-ever Kupuna Day. The inaugural community outreach event was created to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and Hawaiʻi Island’s senior community through education, engagement, and fellowship.

In partnership with the County of Hawaiʻi Department of Parks and Recreation’s Elderly Activities Division, which coordinated participation from Hale Hālāwai, Imin Center, and Yano Hall, attendees began the day with a guided tour of the police station. Participants met personnel from several specialized units and learned about the many services the Hawaiʻi Police Department provides. The tour also featured an interactive K-9 demonstration presented by the Vice West Section and Area II Juvenile Aid Section.

Following the station tour, participants gathered for lunch at the West Hawaiʻi Civic Center, where Denny’s Kona generously provided meals. The luncheon offered kūpuna and officers an opportunity to continue conversations in a relaxed setting and further strengthen community connections.

“Our first-ever Kupuna Day was about creating meaningful opportunities to connect with the seniors in our community,” said Sergeant Wyattlane Nahale of the Kona Community Policing Section. “By opening our doors, sharing what we do, and spending time together, we’re building relationships that foster trust, understanding, and partnership. We look forward to making this an annual tradition.”

The Hawaiʻi Police Department’s Kona Community Policing Section extends its sincere mahalo to the County of Hawaiʻi Department of Parks and Recreation’s Elderly Activities Division and Denny’s Kona for their valued partnership and generous support in making the department’s inaugural Kupuna Day a success.