Hawaii Mom Wins National Scholarship While Caring for Seniors

A Hawaii caregiver who stayed with her client during a tsunami warning just got life-changing news that will help her turn a decade of compassion into a social work degree.

Rachel Chai has spent nearly ten years caring for elderly residents across the islands, balancing two young children and school with the demanding work of in-home care. The divorced mom recently learned she won the Jean Griswold Foundation Scholarship, making her the only Hawaii recipient in the latest award cycle.

"Being a divorced mom of two young children, I didn't know how I was going to pay for school and living expenses," Chai shared. "Finding out I got the scholarship really took a weight off my shoulders."

Chai discovered her calling in 2014 while working in a nursing home, where she fell in love with geriatric care. She now works with Griswold, a non-medical in-home care provider, while pursuing her master's degree in social work.

Her dedication shows up in the small moments that make a big difference. She's organized "girls' night in" experiences for clients and stayed by their side during emergencies like tsunami warnings.

Why This Inspires

Chai represents thousands of caregivers who pour their hearts into helping others while juggling their own challenges. Her story highlights a crucial reality: the people caring for our most vulnerable often need support themselves to keep growing and serving.

The Jean Griswold Foundation Scholarship Program awarded 32 scholarships totaling more than $73,000 to caregivers nationwide this year. These awards recognize that investing in caregivers creates a ripple effect, improving care quality for countless families while helping dedicated professionals like Chai achieve their dreams.

Her long-term goal is to serve families through social work, bringing her hands-on caregiving experience into a role where she can help even more people navigate the challenges of aging and care.

One caregiver's scholarship today means better support for countless families tomorrow.