6. Lucas’s 23rd Birthday

Written By Lisa Watt Banks

To celebrate Lucas’s 23rd birthday, we returned to the Habitat for Humanity townhome complex—the same place where, just a year ago, we built alongside one another and planted a Bing cherry tree in his honor. Being back there felt both tender and powerful.

This year, most of us dug holes and poured cement for fence posts while a smaller crew cut wood that will soon become part of homes that families will cherish. And once again, we planted a Bing cherry tree—another living tribute, rooted in love to honor Lucas.

The work, the time together, the shared purpose, and the simple act of planting a tree in his name all bring us moments of joy amidst the ache. They help us spread love in the world the way he did and help us carry forward a legacy that continues to grow, one small act at a time.

We also handed out The Aloha Tree T-shirts to celebrate the launch of our new webpage and to continue honoring him by encouraging others to find healing through helping, through community service work, and time in nature.

Lisa Watt Banks

Lisa Watt Banks holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology with a certificate in Social Work specializing in Children and Family Services. With over 30 years of experience working with children, youth, and families—including training new social workers with the Children’s Administration—she brings deep compassion and expertise to her work. Over the pas ten years, Lisa has facilitated support groups for middle school youth, focusing on navigating big emotions in healthy ways and led Teen Mental Health First Aid sessions. She is also a certified 200-hour Vinyasa Flow Yoga instructor and holds a certificate in Nature-Informed Therapy and the Sacred Path of Aloha with Kumu Ramsay Taum.

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7.Additional Work Done in Lucas’s Honor
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5. A small gathering to honor the second year of Lucas’s passing