Dennis was born and raised on the west end of Kauai in the rural plantation town of Kekaha.  This provided him with a rich multicultural environment of living and learning respect and appreciation for his own cultural background as well as for other ethnic groups with in his community. His foundational spiritual teachings in both christian and traditional Hawaiian culture, language and 'ohana were provided by his parents, Herbert Ha'o Kauahi and Christobel Ka'anohiokalani Holt Kauahi. He graduated from Waimea High School in 1963 and furthered his education at Willamette University, attaining a Bachelors degree in Sociology in 1967.  He attended the University of Hawaii School of Social Work and graduated with a Master's in Social Work degree in 1970.  Since then until his retirement in 2012, Dennis has work with the Queen Lilioukalani Children's Center providing culturally based Social Work based healing practices to a wide range of communities He has received mentor-ship on Hawaiian healing cultural knowledge and practices from four recognized and renowned Hawaiian cultural experts: Mary Kawena Pukui, Nahale-Elua Mahuiki, Aunty Malia Craver and Uncle Danny Hanakahi. Dennis' interest and commitment continues to be, particularly with our males, helping all males with our community to bring their gifts and talents to the leadership of family, community and state through the strengthening of themselves and ohana. Awards and Affiliations. 2012  -  Papa Ola Lokahi               Native Hawaiian Health Award for ongoing dedication to improving                the health and well-being of Kanaka Maoli. 2012 -  Hawaii National Association  of Social Workers              Lifetime Achievement Award for contributions made in the field of Social Work              for the enhancement and well-being  of individuals and families in the state of              Hawaii. 2013 - Honpa Hongwanji Mission Of Hawaii             Living Treasure of Hawaii Award, for unique accomplishments and contributions             made towards enriching our society.  2012 - Board Member, Aha Kane Organization, focusing on the development of male             leadership in our families communities and state. Hui Mauli Ola proudly presents: Leo Kupa. e hoolono mai. The thought provoking podcast on perpetuating Hawaiian Healing and Wellness, brought to you by: Financial Benefits Insurance specializing in Medicare, Life and Health Insurance. Helping to educate our communities to maximize their benefits. Benefits are our business, service sets us apart. Visit Financial Benefits Insurance at fbihi.com The Indigenous Soap Company Created on the Island of ‘Oahu, the indigenous comes from our passion in using native medicinal herbs and oils from all over the world. Shop online and use the coupon code: leokupa for a 20% discount. Alana natural therapy in Town and Pikoakea Therapeutic Lomi & Rehabilitation Massage in Kailua Mamalani All-Natural Deodorants, Body Powders and Body Products ~ Aloha Aina Packaging ~ Handmade by Hawaiians. Shop online and use the coupon code: leokupa for a 10% discount. Lotus blossom in youLomilomi, hooponopono, farm laau lapaau. Doula & Pale Wahine birth support service. Shop online and use the coupon code: leokupa for a 10% discount. For information on Hui Mauli Ola including events, merchandize and practitioners in your area come to www.huimauliola.org