You Matter Kauai | Rami Positive Space

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About You Matter Kauai 2025

Guided by His Light: A Rally to Save Lives

This is a two part evening event:

Resource Fair 4:30-5:30pm

Mental health resources
Student after school programs
Student Bible Clubs at various schools
Church youth groups
Free Food, prior to show

You Matter Show 5:30pm-8:30pm

Youth performances
Teacher performances (local schools)
Dance, singing talent sections
Suicide Prevention Strategies
Motivating 5 Minute Talks
New Year Count Down!

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Suicide Prevention Resources

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline # 9-8-8 / 988lifeline.org
Hawai’i CARES Line # 1-800-753-6879 / hicares.hawaii.gov
Crisis Text Line – Text ‘Aloha’ to 741 741 / crisistextline.org
Crisis Mobile Outreach (CMO) provides telephone stabilization and mobile outreach assessment and stabilization services for youth in active state of psychiatric crisis. These can be suicidal or homicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, and/or psychosis – such as auditory or visual hallucinations. CMO services provide crisis counseling support, consultation, assessment, and referrals to youth.

In response to COVID-19, we are now offering REMOTE options through different platforms such as phone, computer, & Facetime!

To access this service, please contact the Crisis Line of Hawaii at 1-800-753-6879.
Available 24/7

CMO are funded by the Department of Health – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Division.

Child & Family Service Crisis Mobile Outreach Island locations and contact info:

KAUA‘I: 808.245.5914

2970 Kele St. Suite 203
Lihue, HI 96766

The resource materials and information shared throughout this site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. These resource materials and information is not a substitute for a private, independent consultation with a healthcare or medical professional selected to advise you on your matter. Users of this material are advised to do their own due diligence when it comes to making health or medical decisions and all information, products, and services that have been provided should be independently verified by your own qualified professionals.

We DO NOT provide intervention or crisis response services. You Matter Kauai is a community suicide prevention outreach we do not provide intervention or crisis response services.

Prevent Suicide Kaua’i Task Force is a suicide prevention outreach and education focused community group under the Prevent Suicide Hawai’i Task Force and the State of Hawai’i Department of Health, and we DO NOT provide intervention or crisis response services.

If you are in a crisis and need immediate assistance, CALL 9-1-1 to reach emergency medical services, or go to the nearest emergency room.

Suicide Prevention Task Force

You Matter Kauai Team

Chris & Rami Donahoe

Chris and Rami: A Shared Passion for Saving Lives

Chris and Rami Donahoe share a deep passion for saving the lives of Kauai’s youth and families, dedicating their time and talents to fostering hope, resilience, and community connection through You Matter Kauai.

Chris Donahoe, Emcee, brings over 25 years of experience as a licensed attorney in California and Hawaii, having served as both a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and a Deputy Public Defender. His expertise extends into family law, where he provided compassionate legal guidance in private practice. Outside the courtroom, Chris’s creativity shines as a stand-up comedian, performing in Boston, Miami, and Los Angeles, and as a worship team musician at King’s Chapel.

Rami Donahoe, Producer & Speaker, is a Christian Success Coach at the Nehemiah Center Kauai and an accomplished author. Her works include being an International Best-Selling Author and a Wall Street Journal Best-Selling Co-Author of Expert Resilience. With over 20 years as a school counselor, Rami has dedicated her career to mentoring and guiding youth. She’s also coordinated senior luaus and career fairs, combining her organizational skills with her passion for empowering young people. As a Christian performance artist, Rami brings creativity and faith into her mission to inspire and uplift.

Together, Chris and Rami channel their diverse talents and unwavering faith into You Matter Kauai, working to create meaningful connections and provide life-saving resources to their community.

Nehemiah Center Kauai Representatives

Dr. Mark & Dr. Valerie Willman

Mark Willman, Speaker, is the Executive Administrator at Kaua`i Bible Church, serving in this role since 2017. He received his Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame in 1992. Prior to his position at Kaua`i Bible Church, Mark worked in the arena of agricultural research. His area of expertise was improving corn production through plant breeding and genetics. He earned his PhD. and Masters in Agronomy from the University of IllinoisAt the age of 15, Mark’s younger brother tragically ended his life, which devastated the family. Through counseling and faith, the family moved forward together after this tragedy.

Dr. Valerie Willman, Speaker, is a Clinical Psychologist, licensed in the State of Hawaii. She is a Board Certified Professional Christian Counselor by the International Board of Christian Counselors. Dr. Willman earned a Masters in Counseling from Purdue University in 1984 and Ph.D. in Psychology, specializing in Sport and Performance Psychology

Dr. Willman has many testimonies of God’s faithfulness in her life. One challenge has been conquering the diagnosis of cancer. Through the prayers of the faithful and the mercy of God, Val is healed. She wrote about her journey and is in the process of publishing a book entitled, “Victory over cancer; Live as if it were true…because it IS!”

Resource Links:

Nehemiah Center Kauai

Get the book: Victory Over Cancer

Dr. Valerie’s Website

Speakers

Aaron Chidester, Lead Pastor

Aaron grew up with no background in the church. He suffered a life of abuse, addiction and crime. At the age of 22 years old, he surrendered his life to become a follower of Jesus Christ. This started a journey to overcome the anger, pain, and destructive behaviors in his life. Having found victory in God, he now has a passion for serving those that are struggling through the same issues.

Sermons From Pastor Aaron

Kauai Bible Church

Dr. Mark Willman

Dr. Willman will be sharing a personal testimony on the tragic loss of his brother to suicide. Dr. Mark will share how his family overcame the shock, grief and sadness of their personal loss.

Dr. Valerie Willman

Dr. Valerie will inspire hope and healing by sharing effective suicide prevention strategies, including identifying and reframing negative thoughts into uplifting, powerful truths rooted in God’s love for you. As a featured speaker throughout the You Matter Kauai program, her wisdom and guidance will offer transformative tools to support mental well-being and spiritual renewal.

Robbi Castillo-Contrades

Robbi, a dedicated public middle school English teacher with over 20 years of experience, is known for her transparent, enthusiastic, and heartfelt approach to teaching. She inspires her students through her unwavering commitment and genuine love for their growth. At You Matter Kauai, Robbi will address the importance of breaking down mental health stigmas, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Drawing from her own powerful personal testimony, she passionately advocates for a world where no one feels shame, guilt, or embarrassment in prioritizing their mental well-being.

Dana Salazar

Dana is a devoted mother of three boys, with her eldest serving our country in the Air Force and her two younger sons currently in high school. As an Assistant Cross Country Coach for Waimea High School and a highly respected massage therapist, Dana is deeply committed to fostering both physical and emotional well-being. At You Matter Kauai, she will share her heartfelt insights on the vital importance of checking in on friends and loved ones, even when they appear to be “doing fine.” Dana’s message reminds us that even the most seemingly put-together individuals can face hidden struggles and need the reassurance of genuine support.

Tricia Allen

Tricia Allen, a talented producer at Ho’ike TV, is deeply passionate about empowering teens with media knowledge through the station’s innovative programs. With extensive experience in both radio and television, Tricia has a rich background in media communications. At You Matter Kauai, she will share her inspiring personal journey of navigating career paths that didn’t align with her passions, ultimately leading her back to the dynamic and fulfilling field of media. Tricia will also highlight the impactful after-school programs she leads at Ho’ike, designed to nurture creativity and skill-building for the next generation of storytellers.

Resource Links:

Ho’ike After School Program

Ho’ike Instagram

Nick Guarrasi

With extensive experience as a child welfare social worker for the Oregon Department of Human Services, Nicholas Guarrasi has worked as a Teen Permanency Caseworker, supporting teens and their families through complex challenges. His work focused on supportig youth facing homelessness, adjudication (juvenile justice involvement), orphanhood, intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as families navigating severe substance use, mental health issues, physical health barriers, financial hardship, and trauma such as sexual abuse. Also in his role as a Family Meeting Facilitator, Nicholas was tasked with helping families achieve reunification and navigate transitions out of state involvement, shaping his empathetic, solutions-focused approach to working with diverse populations.

In addition to his professional experience, Nicholas has a comprehensive background in mind-body connection studies and holistic health practices, with a specialized focus on how food impacts mental health and well-being. His integrative approach is rooted in a deep understanding of how mental, emotional, spiritual and physical health are interconnected, empowering individuals to find balance, resilience, and lasting transformation.

Nicholas’ own journey of healing has profoundly shaped his work. Having personally battled intrusive thoughts, suicidal ideation, OCD, depression, insomnia, chronic headaches, and chronic fatigue, he overcame these challenges through faith in God’s love, and the decision to choose a better story for his life. He is passionate about empowering others to tap into their own inner strength and innate resilience, guiding them toward healing, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose. He lives in Portland, Oregon with his wife Lauren where he is currently studying Nutrition Science.

Resource Link: Fortis Results

Caroline Tapia

Caroline is a devoted mother of two teenagers and a loving wife, cherishing her partnership with her husband as they walk together in Christ Jesus. Her journey has been one of perseverance and faith, navigating the challenges of growing up in a family impacted by addiction. Through her struggles, Caroline found solace and transformation in seeking God, allowing the Good Lord to mend her heart and guide her purpose.

Today, she is a powerful prayer warrior, sharing the Truth and Light of God’s Word with teens and adults in profound and impactful ways. Caroline has served in various capacities, most notably at Camp Agape on the island of Kauai with her husband Raphael, where she speaks life, hope, and healing into others. Her unwavering faith and passion for prayer inspire all who cross her path.

Priti “Maya” Tayal

Priti Tayal EdM, MA is the Community Programs director at Hale Opio Inc. Kauai. I moved to Kauai in 2016 from Philadelphia where I worked as an adjunct college professor of Psychology and Criminal Justice, a mental health therapist and clinical director/supervisor of various programs that serviced the community and foster youth. I have over 25 years’ experience in the mental health and community service fields. I am passionate about helping others and empowering our young people to thrive.

Co-chair of Prevent Suicide Kauai Task Force. Leadership Kauai class of 2025. Sources of Strength and YMHFA certified.

Dave & Kelly Braun

More details to come…

Savannah Moura

More details to come…

TBA

More to come

Katie Woodfin

Youth Pastor, more details to come

Rami Donahoe

Best-Selling author, Success Coach, Nehemia Center Kauai and former School Counselor of +20 years. Bringing a reflection tool for students and adults to maintain balance in one’s life.

Performing Arts

Jennifer Bell-Grey

Jennifer Bell-Grey, ARAD, Dip RBS TC, is the founder of Garden Island Dance Academy, established on Kauai in 1998 after graduating from the Royal Ballet School and earning her teaching degree from the Royal Academy of Dancing. With over 25 years of experience, she has taught students of all ages and abilities, from preschoolers to elders, and has trained aspiring teachers, publishing instructional dance videos and DVDs for global audiences.

Jennifer has choreographed numerous performances, including Swan Lake Act 2, and was awarded the People’s Choice Award for Best Dancer on Kauai in 2006. A dedicated educator, she has spoken on Hawaii Public Radio about modernizing traditional ballet and co-authored The Adventures of Nani and Koa, an educational children’s book set on Kauai.

With her deep cultural and professional experience, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to every class, inspiring her students to embrace dance as a powerful form of expression and connection. She is also a proud mother of two young musicians and dancers, Cleopatra and Dayo.

Moria Douma

Moria Douma has taught for Garden Island Dance Academy students dances from Bolivia, Chile, Israel & Macedonia.

Moria Douma fell in love with the beautiful art form of classical ballet at age five and has been dancing ever since. In addition to ballet, she has extensive experience in contemporary ballet, modern, jazz, and international folk dancing.

Moria has been professionally trained in ballet for over eighteen years at the Montana Ballet Company’s Dance Under the Big Sky; Dmitri Kulev Classical Ballet Academy.

Moria’s a performing artist who is passionate about sharing her love and passion for dance, music, and performance. Her repertoire include Nutcracker, Snow White, and Cinderella, and Giselle.