LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

David Tautofi was nominated by Ranell Asuega, the parent of a student.

Mr. Tautofi has sacrificed his time and given up his life goals to return back to Hawaii and help the kids and community. He gives his students time and an ear to listen to what they have to say, what they are struggling in, and what they need help with.

Mr. Tautofi has set up programs to assist students with tutoring needs. He has started both school and community events to assist in raising funds for school programs. He has also been a strong leader for teenagers and families by showing them how to give back. Mr. Tautofi has led clean ups throughout the island, as well as sporting camps to assist and mentor coaches throughout the school district. Recently, he took the football team to the mainland to expose them to what kids on the island rarely gets to see - the world outside the small island chain. While in Las Vegas, he partnered with other high schools and colleges to conduct community outreach with orphans on the trip.

"David has molded teenagers in his classroom into respectful young adults. His work inspires individuals in the community, including adults such as myself, to want to give back," said Asuega. "I have recently signed up to assist with the girls volleyball team at Kaimuki High School, my alma mater. Honestly, I have renewed pride for my school and community since David has been active. I see the changes in the students and in the adults. I'm not alone - there have been so many adults stepping up and wanting to be apart of the change that David has made and continues to do. We are thankful and blessed to have David Tautofi in Hawaii. He has changed lives of both teenagers & grown adults/parents and continues to do so.

Below is a short video highlighting some of David's accomplishments in his community.