What We Do

Prior to 1962, no program existed on the Kona Coast to provide care, training, or even concern for children and adults with significant disabilities. Institutionalization was routinely recommended and it was not uncommon for those who remained at home to be kept hidden and not discussed outside the family.

In 1962, a group of local residents, led by Dr. Kid “Doc” McCoy, held a meeting to focus on the need for a locally operated program to serve the disabled. The Kona Chapter of the Big Island Association to Help Retarded Citizens (BIAHRC) was formed with Doc McCoy as its President. Assisting Doc, was Mark Sutherland. Four months later, the first classes were held at Christ Church’s Wallace Hall. A rehabilitation workshop and a sheltered workshop were added in 1965.

In 1966, the Kona Chapter of BIAHRC formally adopted the name of Kona Krafts for its workshop and management board. Yash Deguchi was hired as its Executive Director, a position he held for over 20 years. The Kona Center for Retarded Children moved to the upstairs room of the old Kona Fire Station, and Kona Krafts established itself on the ground floor.

Ground was broken for our present facility in 1969 and was completed in 1970. In November 1984, our Group Home in Captain Cook was blessed and dedicated. In 2005, we added another dba: The Arc of Kona.

The Arc of Kona has grown and changed over the years, but our main goal has been to accelerate the shift towards increased community integration and inclusion for people with disabilities. We strive to educate and support families and individuals in their efforts to advocate for the integration of people with disabilities into the mainstream of our society.

Our Mission

The Arc of Kona provides services to people with disabilities that encourages personal growth and quality of life through empowerment and choice.

What We Offer