FOUNDER/PRESIDENT

Chaplain Renee Godoy has been serving the Police Department as a Chaplain since 2007 and the Fire Department since 2015.  In 2021 she founded "Friends of First Responders" - a non-profit committed to the mental health and relational wellness of first responders and their families and enjoys serving them as they serve our community.

VICE PRESIDENT/RETIRED FIRE DEPUTY CHIEF

Retired from HFD and is married to Kara. He enjoys spending time with friends and family.

SECRETARY

Larkin grew up in Hilo, and after high school, moved to the Mainland.  When she moved back to Hilo, she began her career in the real estate industry which provided her the opportunity to serve on multiple non-profit boards.  She married her first responder husband in 2013.  Larkin has served on the FFR board since 2021 and loves that FFR gives back to the first responder community. 

TREASURER

BOARD MEMBER/ POLICE CHAPLAIN

Married to Brandon Konanui who is a retired Police Officer and is spending his retirement working at Matson. Mother of 4, stepmom to 2, Memaw of 4 granddaughters, and 2 grandsons. Currently serving as a Pastor at New Hope Church Hilo Hawaii, a Police Chaplain, and weekday mornings Mon-Fri on KWXX FM on the "Kat and Ku`ehu Breakfast Lu`au" show. #beblessedandalwayslookup

BOARD MEMBER/RETIRED FIRE CAPTAIN

Currently serving as a Certified Emergency Services Chaplain for the Hawaii Fire Department/Ocean Safety. Has a combined 35 years as a First Responder for Hawaii County as a Lifeguard, Police Officer and Firefighter/EMT. Retired as a HFD Captain and also honorably from the Military with 27 years of service. Currently, pursuing studies as a Substance Abuse Counselor at the University of Hawai’i Hilo.

BOARD MEMBER/RETIRED FIRE DEPUTY CHIEF

Retired after 25 years of service with HFD. Married to Delilah and together they have 6 children and 12 grandchildren. Bobby is also the girl’s golf coach at Waiakea High School.

BOARD MEMBER/FIRE FIGHTER

Justin Lee is a passionate board member of Friends of First Responders dedicated to community service. Born on Oahu and raised in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Justin attended KCC, HCC where he obtained his EMT/Fire Science degree and works as a EMT/Firefighter who is committed to protecting lives and serving his community. In addition to his work as a Firefighter, Justin is a golf coach for Kealakehe High School and Friends of Kona Junior Golf who inspires young athletes to develop life skills through the game of golf. Justin combines a deep love for his island roots with a commitment to making a positive impact throughout life and his community.

BOARD MEMBER

First Responder spouse for 24 years. A small business owner who loves making quilts, and is a mom to 4 daughters and Gma to 2.

BOARD MEMBER

Married to former police officer Kaleo Waipa, Homestreet Bank Mortgage Loan officer and mom to Kamakaila & Kuhao. Jeni is very active at HMC ʻOhana, worship hula, and planning events for FFRHawaii

BOARD MEMBER/CIVIL DEFENSE

George Manuel, born in Pāhala and raised in Waiʻōhinu with roots in Kamā‘oa, has built a life of dedication and service. The eldest among his two brothers and two sisters, George pursued a career as a firefighter, dedicating over 21 years to the profession before his retirement in 2020. His commitment to the community continues in his current role as a Civil Defense Staff Officer focused on logistics, where his experience and problem-solving skills are instrumental in supporting the safety and resilience of the public. Known for his service-oriented approach, George exemplifies an openness to learn, self-awareness of his limitations, and a desire to grow, making him a valued leader in his community.