by: Bill Somerville, Founder

The Pacific Islander community in San Mateo County is growing and to serve the community some creative programs are in operation.

I visited Camp Unity, a summer program at a Daly City elementary school serving 247 youth, Kindergarten to high school. It was a full day of dance, some academic courses, and recreation taught by elders from the Pacific Islander community. This is a wonderful opportunity for children to get a full, rich experience to change their behavior and do better in school.

Manufou Liaiga Anoa’i founded Camp Unity five years ago and she runs the entire effort for $30,000. As she pointed out, many of the staff are volunteers.

It is exciting to walk in a room, hear Polynesian music, and see children dancing traditional dance. The enthusiasm is palpable.