Ho'ola Lahui Hawai'I

P.O. Box 3990
Lihue, HI 96766

The overall goal of the Kauai’s Great Weigh Out (KGWO) is to promote healthier behaviors and reduce complications of diabetes, obesity and overweight, and related risk factors for chronic disease conditions (e.g., hypertension, high cholesterol, high blood pressure) among Native Hawaiians and Filipinos living in the Kauai County. Coalition members involved in the project include IO Vision, American Heart Association, Kauai District Health Office, Kauai County Parks and Recreation, Wilcox Women’s Health Program, Mahelona Nutrition Program, and the University of Hawaii Extension.

The project promotes physical activity, balanced nutrition, health screening and access to medical care for at-risk target populations. KGWO has two phases: phase one is a healthy lifestyle challenge designed to help participants shed weight and become more physically active. Participants enroll in teams of 10, and agree to participate in 8 weeks of exercise, healthy eating and education, and to maintain a weekly exercise and nutrition log. Teams stay in communication throughout the program to offer support and encouragement. Educational classes and physical education classes/events, including community hikes, walks, canoe paddling, martial arts, and ethnic cooking, are held. A cultural component involves such activities as Makahiki, Hele Mai Ai classes, Kauai Diabetes Ball, cultural hikes and fishing excursions. Others may enroll in phase one through the KWGO Companion Program, the Senior Too program, and the Kids Too program. Phase two is a healthy lifestyle maintenance program for those who have completed phase one. It involves continuation of physical and nutritional activities and maintenance of health promoting behaviors through use of healthcare services and support groups. An island-wide educational campaign involves media, including commercials, radio interviews, and printed media (ads, articles), and the use of a web site to promote activities. A video/DVD is used to encourage participation in events. Staff work with community agencies, civic groups, churches, businesses, councils and other stakeholders in outreach and recruitment activities, and with primary care providers to promote prevention, health screening and regular medical visits.