Third Circuit Chief Judge Wendy M. DeWeese was recently recognized with the Ka Lehua Kea Hiwahiawa Award by Going Home Hawaiʻi for her significant contributions to the community on Hawaiʻi island. The award ceremony took place as part of Going Home Hawaiʻi's 20th-anniversary celebrations, which marks two decades of aiding individuals in reintegrating into community life through various support services.
The organization is composed of 50 public and private entities, forming an extensive network with nearly 500 members across the island. During the event on October 11, Judge DeWeese and Roxanne Costa, Salvation Army Social Services Director, were honored as "county reentry heroes."
Judge DeWeese was commended for her dedicated efforts in assisting justice-involved individuals, particularly those involved with the Big Island Drug Court program. Going Home Hawaiʻi highlighted that "Judge DeWeese has enhanced the effectiveness of the Big Island’s Drug Court, transforming it into a nationally aligned initiative that follows best practice standards." Her commitment includes attending national Drug Court trainings at her own expense to implement new insights and improve service for participants, positioning the Drug Court as a source of hope for those seeking recovery and a second chance.