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Noelle Fujii-Oride

Based on Kaua‘i, Noelle leads Overstory’s work to produce independent, nuanced journalism that prioritizes our local communities’ needs. As a journalist, she specializes in in-depth, explanatory reporting. Her goal is to tell stories that elevate community-driven solutions, bring clarity to Hawai‘i’s complex challenges and encourage reflection on our shared humanity as people who call these islands home. Feel free to contact Noelle with comments, questions and story ideas at [email protected].

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HousingOn Kaua‘i, Residents Help Shape Their Communities’ Large Affordable Housing Projects

Housing
On Kaua‘i, Residents Help Shape Their Communities’ Large Affordable Housing Projects

by | Dec 17, 2025 | , ,

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Early community feedback through advisory committees, surveys and public meetings help shape the mix of housing units, street designs, and shared amenities in the county’s master-planned communities.

EnvironmentHawai‘i Farmers Turn to Korean Natural Farming to Revive Soil and Strengthen Local Food Systems

Environment
Hawai‘i Farmers Turn to Korean Natural Farming to Revive Soil and Strengthen Local Food Systems

by | Nov 19, 2025 | ,

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Korean Natural Farming has attracted farmers and gardeners who want to use fewer imported, synthetic chemicals and better nurture the lands they care for.

Environment, HousingKaua‘i is Stepping Up Wildfire Protections for its Plantation Camp Communities

Environment, Housing
Kaua‘i is Stepping Up Wildfire Protections for its Plantation Camp Communities

by | Oct 22, 2025 | , ,

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Kaua‘i is the first county in Hawai‘i to adopt a Wildland Urban Interface ordinance. Across the United States, many jurisdictions have implemented similar codes to better protect homes and communities from wildfires.

HealthCommunity Programs are Nurturing the Health and Resilience of Hawai‘i First Responders and Their Families

Health
Community Programs are Nurturing the Health and Resilience of Hawai‘i First Responders and Their Families

by | Oct 22, 2025 | ,

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These programs make up a growing community-based support system, helping those on the front lines and their families cope with the challenges of the job and build strong relationships.

HealthHow Native Hawaiian Cultural Practices are Supporting First Responders’ Mental Well-Being

Health
How Native Hawaiian Cultural Practices are Supporting First Responders’ Mental Well-Being

by | Oct 8, 2025 | ,

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Several initiatives are engaging first responders in ‘āina and cultural healing practices to help ease the stress and trauma they face in their line of work.

HealthCulturally Rooted Domestic Violence Program on Kaua‘i Showed Early Impacts Before Funding Was Cut

Health
Culturally Rooted Domestic Violence Program on Kaua‘i Showed Early Impacts Before Funding Was Cut

by | Sep 24, 2025 | ,

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YWCA Kaua‘i’s Ho‘omana I Ka Lāhui program sought to advance healing, support and well-being in Kaua‘i’s Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and Filipino communities.