Third Circuit Chief Judge Wendy M. DeWeese has been recognized with the Ka Lehua Kea Hiwahiawa Award by Going Home Hawaiʻi for her significant contributions to the community on Hawaiʻi island. The organization, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary, focuses on helping individuals reintegrate into society through employment, education, housing, and other services.
Judge DeWeese was acknowledged alongside Roxanne Costa, the Salvation Army Social Services Director, as "county reentry heroes" during an event held on October 11. Judge DeWeese's work with justice-involved individuals, particularly those in the Big Island Drug Court program, was highlighted as a key reason for her recognition.
Going Home Hawaiʻi praised Judge DeWeese for enhancing the effectiveness of the Big Island’s Drug Court. The organization noted that she has transformed it into a nationally aligned initiative that adheres to best practice standards. According to Going Home Hawaiʻi, "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. Attending national Drug Court trainings at her own expense, she has implemented the latest insights to better serve participants, making the Drug Court a beacon of hope for individuals seeking recovery and a second chance at life."