2021 June Staff Spotlight - Denise Clark

1.     What is your role in ‘Ohana Conferencing? I am an ‘Ohana Conference Facilitator.

2.     What is your favorite ‘Ohana Conferencing story? The story that stands out for me is my first ‘Ohana Conference 23 years ago. The memory of observing this conference is still so vivid because of how powerful and magical the conference was for the family. I was impressed with the Facilitator Arlynna, the Executive Director at the time, and how she brought three families together from two different cultures. There was serious physical abuse to the child and having the three families in the room provided the opportunity for them to share their feelings and concerns. She was so insightful of their emotions, giving everyone the opportunity to share and she listened so intently. Arlynna included everyone in developing an agreement on the next steps, including CWS, and how to protect the child. Additionally, steps were decided on how to move forward with new understanding and for healing to begin between the maternal, paternal and step-father’s family. All of this was accomplished while keeping the child at the center of the conference. The calmness executed by Arlynna, her ability to be fair, unbiased and giving the families an opportunity to really look at the issues, share their voice, and be heard was truly magical.

3.     How long have you been facilitating ‘Ohana Conferences and how did you get started?  I have been with EPIC for 23 years! I was invited to join and listen in on a pilot project that was going to begin in Waianae. The meeting was held at Nanakuli Lili‘uokalani Children’s Center introducing the program and recruiting community members to facilitate conferences with families that lived on the Coast. I admit that initially, I had my reservations joining EPIC because of the overwhelming amount of studies and pilot projects of the people that lived on the Waianae coast. However, after observing my first family conference and learning the true purpose, I joined EPIC ‘Ohana and the rest is history!

4.     How would you describe ‘Ohana Conferencing in one word? EPIC

5.     What would you like others to know about EPIC ‘Ohana and ‘Ohana Conferencing?

EPIC ‘Ohana is fair, open, and very intentional about what we want to accomplish. As a company, EPIC truly is a family environment. We have a very warm work environment where you feel a sense of belonging. EPIC has been this way from the beginning. All EPIC staff are welcoming, inclusive, positive and fun. Even with all of the different programs at EPIC, roles and responsibilities, we are all moving in the same direction for our parents, youth, children and the community. Our purpose is to work with families and youth, to make things better for our community. We are all here for that purpose and that purpose unites us.

‘Ohana Conferencing is very useful and helpful for parents and family members. They gather in a safe environment, are allowed to ask questions, get clarification, and an understanding of what needs to get done and who can support the children and parents. ‘Ohana Conferencing also helps parents and family members navigate through the process toward reunification and sometimes permanency with extended family. 

6.     What is your favorite non-work activity and hobbies? 

I love gardening, cooking and especially being with my grandchildren and my extended family.