Honomu youth gather outside the Computer Resource Center

The Honomu team wants to provide equipment and ducational services to prepare our community for tomorrow's career and economic challenges.

With the MIRA grant, the Honomu team created the Honomu Computer Resource Center. Volunteers from the MIRA team built an interior wall and hallway to define the space, installed two doors and secured windows before they were able to open the facility. They then solicited donations of furniture, equipment, and painting labor, but the initial funding was provided by MIRA.

The center currently includes seven computer systems, inkjet and laser printers, a fax and a copy machine. The center also offers adult classes in MS Word, Excel, Desktop Publishing, Website Design, Windows/File Mgmt, and Internet/Email. They are now seeking funds to expand their services to children.

In addition to the classes, community groups use the facilities to print newsletters. Small businesses and neighbors use the fax and copy services.

The availability of equipment and adult supervision to children and teens after school has had a noticeable impact. School aged children in the community make use of the Center regularly, but are the least interested in regular class activity. The Center supports them with more flexible and innovative programs and available but unobtrusive assistance.

The Center has received energetic support from state Representative Dwight Takamine and has formed collaborative relationships with other MIRA teams and community groups who share the same vision of using technology to promote community-based economic development.