About Tamara Kaiwa &
Why She Started Kaiwa Cares
Tamara Kaiwa, educator, author, and advocate, founded Kaiwa Cares to bridge the gap in mental health services for youth and young adults, especially those from vulnerable backgrounds. Having experienced firsthand the instability of being in over 13 foster homes, Tamara pursued extensive therapy to unpack and heal from trauma and complex PTSD. Her journey has given her profound insight into the challenges faced by young people, which she has applied in teaching and higher education roles, focusing on supporting those who need it most.
Established in 2022, Kaiwa Cares reflects Tamara’s mission to ensure that no young person feels alone in their healing journey. The organization is dedicated to making comprehensive mental health resources accessible, especially in underserved areas of Jacksonville, and is grounded in the belief that healing is possible at any age. Tamara’s goal is for everyone to find peace and recovery early in life, but she reassures that starting later—whether in their 30s or beyond—is perfectly okay, too.
With a passion for empowering others, Kaiwa Cares fosters support, community-driven initiatives, and innovative programs that encourage mental wellness. Tamara’s unwavering commitment is to see young people thrive, moving beyond trauma to a life of fulfillment and hope.
Isaiah 1:17 (NIV) Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; Plead the case of the widow.
Values
Compassion: We approach our work with deep empathy and understanding, recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals who have experienced trauma. We demonstrate compassion in every interaction and decision, fostering a safe and supportive environment for their healing.
Empowerment: We believe in the inherent strength and resilience of every individual. We empower people by providing them with the tools, resources, and opportunities necessary to regain control of their lives, realize their potential, and become active participants in their own healing journey.
Collaboration: We value the power of collaboration and recognize that addressing the complex issues surrounding trauma requires a collective effort. We actively seek partnerships with like-minded organizations, professionals, and communities to maximize our impact and create sustainable change.
Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, maintaining transparency, honesty, and accountability in all aspects of our work. We prioritize the well-being and best interests of the individuals we serve, ensuring that their rights, dignity, and privacy are respected at all times.
Innovation: We embrace innovation as a means to drive progress and improve outcomes for individuals healing from trauma. We continuously seek innovative approaches, methodologies, and technologies that can enhance our programs, services, and overall effectiveness.
Diversity and Inclusion: We celebrate and value the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected, heard, and included, regardless of their backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
Transformation: We are committed to achieving lasting, transformative change in the lives of people in our community who are healing from adverse life experiences. We invest in sustainable programs and strategies that have a long-term impact, ensuring that those we serve have the necessary support and resources for their continued growth and well-being.
Mission
Commitment to Holistic Care: Through our commitment to holistic care, we offer a comprehensive range of services to address the diverse needs of trauma-affected people. Our team of experienced professionals brings a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from fields such as therapy, counseling, and alternative healing modalities.
Healing Journey: We firmly believe that healing is a personal and unique journey. That’s why we provide essential resources tailored to meet individual needs. Whether it’s access to therapy sessions with licensed counselors, educational workshops, or connecting individuals with support groups, we aim to equip our community with the tools necessary to overcome trauma and promote lasting well-being.
Unwavering Support: At Kaiwa Cares, our support doesn’t end in the healing process. We are committed to providing unwavering support throughout each individual’s journey, fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and compassion. We are here to uplift, empower, and guide individuals as they reclaim their lives and discover new possibilities.
Seek our Help and Support: Suppose you or someone you know is seeking healing and support. In that case, we welcome you to explore our website and learn more about the invaluable resources and services we offer. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future and help individuals reclaim their lives from the grip of trauma.
Partnership and Collaboration
Testimonial
Patients Say About us
