Maui County honors kupuna during Older Americans Month

WAILUKU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Two Maui residents were recently honored in a ceremony celebrating their contributions to the county’s kūpuna.

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Maui’s Department of Human Concerns Office on Aging announced that Joseph Pontanilla and Sister Roselani Enomoto received the 2026 Maui County Outstanding Older American Male and Female awards.

Pontanilla was selected for his lifelong dedication to community service, mentorship and volunteerism. He has been an active member of the Kahului Lions Club for more than 46 years and was a director of the Kahului Federal Credit Union for about 30 years, the county said.

Officials said Enomoto was chosen for her lifetime of faith-based leadership, compassion and service to the people of Maui. She co-founded the Nā Hoaloha nonprofit, which helps kūpuna age with dignity and independence.

They were honored alongside 11 other Maui nominees during a ceremony to honor Older Americans Month on May 15 at the J. Walter Cameron Center.

During the event, Maui Mayor Richard Bissen proclaimed May as Older Americans Month, which is celebrated across the continental U.S.

Bissen said the gathering was an opportunity to recognize individuals whose generosity, leadership and dedication to others continue to make a meaningful difference across Hawaii.

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“Mahalo to the families, caregivers, community partners and volunteers whose support and care help strengthen the lives of older adults throughout Maui County,” Mayor Bissen said. “Our kūpuna contribute to Maui Nui in countless ways — through volunteerism, mentorship, caregiving, cultural knowledge and lifelong service to others.”

Pontanilla and Enomoto will be recognized alongside the other honorees from each county on June 12 during the State of Hawaii Older Americans Month Celebration.

“These honorees remind us that aging brings meaningful opportunities to uplift others and give back to the community,” County Department of Human Concerns Director Maggie Willis said. “Joseph Pontanilla and Roselani Enomoto, along with all of our nominees, embody that spirit through their service and dedication.”

This year’s national theme for Older Americans Month was “Champion Your Health,” which encouraged older adults to take an active role in wellness, preventive care, informed decision-making and community engagement to support healthy independent living.

For more general information on the Office of Aging, including awards or programs, call (808) 270-7755 or visit them online here.

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