1951
Fernhurst was sold to the Honolulu Rapid Transit Company. One year later, it reopened where it stands today in Makiki, a location selected by Ruth Richards Midkiff. The new building was designed by William Merrill, while Mrs. Midkiff supervised the construction and furnishings.
1955
Camp Halekipa merged with Dr. Theodore Richards’ Kokokahi Community Trust to form the Kokokahi YWCA center. Dr. Richards envisioned an inter-racial community at Kokokahi (meaning “of one blood”), where the people of Hawai‘i could live and play together.
1957
Kokokahi YWCA raised money for and built a swimming pool.
1962
The Beach Club became the Waikiki Shores, a cooperative apartment building. It was later sold in 1973. YWCA reorganized with two branches and two centers. The Honolulu YWCA changed its name to YWCA O‘ahu.
1968
Kokokahi launched renovations to include a physical education building for indoor classes, an arts and crafts facility, a large multipurpose building and a marina.
1970
During the ‘70s, the organization grew its physical and general education programs and rehabilitative and supportive services to include special needs groups. YWCA O‘ahu got involved in legislative issues on equal rights, the treatment of juveniles, environmental protection and programs for immigrants. Photo is of the 1970 YWCA Senior High Summer Conference.
1971
YWCA O‘ahu built a gymnasium at Kokokahi YWCA and names it Ruth Midkiff Gymnasium. Ruth was the president of YWCA O‘ahu from 1936-1939.
1978
Laniakea YWCA was recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.
1981
Hale Nanea lodge is built at Kokokahi YWCA.
1986
YWCA filled the pool with collected recyclable cans from people who learned to swim at Laniākea. The money raised was used for badly-needed pool repairs.
1999
The Clothes Closet launched in 1999 and grew to become the highly successful economic advancement program, Dress for Success® Honolulu in 2003. This undated photo shows an early location of the program.
2000
Kokokahi hosted its first community celebration "Day on the Bay."