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East Hawaii Jazz & Blues Festival 2024

Occasionally, I talk about things that aren’t necessarily all things real estate. One such passion is my involvement with The Hawai‘i Island Veterans Memorial, Inc. (HIVM).

A Commitment to Veterans

For 27 years (and counting), HIVM has been working on projects that will provide Veteran’s preference housing and related services. HIVM is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) all-volunteer non-profit corporation organized to serve as a development entity for Hawai’i Island’s veterans and veterans groups. Most recently, we served as the umbrella organization that helped sponsor the “Wall that Heals.” What an incredible privilege to help honor our Vietnam Vets!

Affordable Housing and Economic Impact

When you drive by Waiakea High School, the 92-unit affordable housing going up across the street was originally our project. As an original board member and now Chair, I’m bursting with pride every time I drive by. Several years ago, our ever-energetic board member, LTC (ret) Bob Williams, helped convince EAH Housing to be our partner in this important venture, and EAH has welcomed our input every step of the way. Besides providing much-needed housing, the project has pumped approximately $58 million into our local economy since February 2023. Final touches are moving along with the first residents expected this Fall!

Future Plans: Community Medical Clinic

Going forward, we intend to develop a community medical clinic next door. It will be occupied by an established Hawai‘i-based medical services provider and traveling doctors serving veterans, the housing residents, students, and our island community. Speaking of students, HIVM will proudly award our first two annual scholarships this year!

Upcoming Fundraiser: East Hawai‘i Jazz and Blues Festival

Our signature fundraiser is coming up on October 26 & 27th, when we proudly present the 10th annual East Hawai‘i Jazz and Blues Festival at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. With 5 hours of non-stop music on two stages, it’s fun for all, even if Jazz and Blues is not your thing. It’s always one of the most fun events on Hawai’i Island, bar none! Save the date. Proceeds benefit the Hawai‘i Island Veteran’s Community Projects!

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Denise Nakanishi
About the Author

Denise Nakanishi

Denise Nakanishi is a REALTOR Broker with Hawai'i Life. Denise Nakanishi is one of Hilo's most acclaimed real estate agents. She reached the rank of Major in the US Army and is now known by many as "Major Mom." The nickname fits–not only does Denise bring the discipline and mission-oriented attitude you'd expect, she's also caring and compassionate, always looking out for her clients like they're her own family. Having made the Big Island her home since 1987, Denise combines her extensive knowledge of the area with a sharp focus on customer service and the results speak for themselves. She's the recent recipient of the Best East Hawai`i, Best of Zillow, Chairman's Circle Award, President's Circle, Top Producing Agent since 2001, and Realtor of the Year awards. Denise stays ahead of the curve because she's passionate about education–she served as Education Chair for Hawaii Island REALTORS® for many years. She's one of Big Island's best real estate resources, known for her weekly article in the Hawaii Tribune Herald. Denise leads Team Nakanishi for Hawai`i Life, who is committed to their family, work, and community. In her little time away from work, Denise is a committed runner and Grandy. She also devotes many hours to various Veterans' Organizations, the East Hawaii Cultural Center, and the Hawaii Island REALTORS®. You can email me at denise@hawaiilife.com or via phone at (808) 936-5100.

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