In remembrance of the Maui Wildfires that swept through Lahaina, the Hawaii Red Cross will be presenting stories from residents and volunteers as they were reported during the initial days and weeks of response efforts. Some of these stories originally appeared online, through news coverage or on social media; other stories are being presented for the first time. We hope to treat every story as both a remembrance and a lesson on how best to respond to those in need.

Uilani is a long-time Red Cross volunteer who takes inspiration and motivation for helping others from the connections she makes on a personal level. Finding a way to connect with a community in need – in this case, current and veteran members of the Armed Forces – creates a bond that lets people know that they do not need to face disaster alone.

Learn more about the many ways the Red Cross provides Service to the Armed Forces by visiting redcross.org/hawaii.

“I’m still learning; I’ve always been too busy trying to help others. My Red Cross friends have become the support I lean on, even as I help others,” said Uilani Soares of Maui, Hawaii. She is busy putting that wisdom to work helping military personnel and veterans recovering from the deadly wildfire that devastated the community in Lahaina on Maui.

The wildfire affected the lives of everyone in its path, including active-duty military and veterans. Uilani, an American Red Cross Service to Armed Forces volunteer, stepped up immediately to assist as they begin rebuilding their lives.

She emphasizes the importance of making personal connections and taking the time to really get to know those she serves. She shares the story of meeting a military veteran at the assistance center who had difficulty walking and was prone to falls. The veteran had been urged to use a walker but refused. Taking the time to get to know him and gain his trust, she learned he wasn’t opposed to using a walker, but the one he had been issued did more harm than good. By listening to his unique needs, she learned the specific type of walker he needed and helped him get the right one. Uilani’s time and care made all the difference.

Inspired by her daughter, who is active-duty military, and her father-in-law, a Korean Conflict veteran, Uilani takes great satisfaction in serving those who have served our country.

“To help others, I’ve discovered the importance of building a strong team and devoting myself completely to the team and our mission. Just being there — period — makes all the difference.”