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We’d love to get to know our community partners! Throughout the year, one of our hard-working community partners members sits down to answer the 10 big questions about work, fun, and life on Maui!
We are pleased to bring you this Q&A with Paul Tonnessen, Executive Director of the Friends of the Children’s Justice Center.
1
Briefly describe your early life and professional beginnings that led you to where you are now.
I grew up in Boston. One of nine children. I am on the Board of the Friends of the Children’s Justice Center of Maui, Inc. from 1999 and took over foundation in 2012.
2
What is your official professional title? Please explain the work that you do.
Executive Director and sole employee with a board of 15 directors. My work provides funds for the healing process for children who have been traumatized.
3
What do you love about your work?
Being part of a healing process and seeing children flourish from the work we do.
4
When you are not working, where might we find you?
Volunteering for other nonprofits.
5
What’s something about you that might surprise people?
I am 1st generation American Norwegian.
6
Who has influenced you? Who/what inspires you?
My father and helping others and seeing lives changed.
7
Looking back at your career so far, what are you most proud of?
Fostering over 30 children over the last 30 years.
8
Looking ahead 10 years, what do you hope to achieve?
Breaking the cycle of child abuse.
9
How might others describe you?
Direct, compassionate.
10
What would you like to share about Maui with people who may not know the area? This could be your favorite Maui memory, place or attribute.
My favorite place is Hana. Too many memories to list. We are a caring and loving community.