Honoring a Legacy of Safety: MADD Hawaii and Carol McNamee Nominated for HPD Citizenship Award

The Honolulu Police Department’s Traffic Division is proud to nominate Mrs. Carol McNamee and the Hawaii Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for the HPD Citizenship Award. For over four decades, Mrs. McNamee and MADD Hawaii have played a vital role in making Oʻahu’s roadways safer, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with law enforcement, victims, and the broader community in the fight against impaired driving.

Founded in 1984 by Carol McNamee, MADD Hawaii was the 200th chapter in the nation and was born from her determination to prevent the tragedies caused by drunk driving. At a time when little to no legislative support existed, Mrs. McNamee boldly stepped forward, rallying community partners—including the Hawaiʻi Medical Association—to build the foundation of what would become one of the most impactful nonprofit organizations in the state.

Through her leadership, MADD Hawaii has achieved landmark legislative victories, including raising the legal drinking age from 18 to 21, lowering the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit from 0.10% to 0.08%, and advocating for Hawaii’s Administrative Driver’s License Revocation Office (ADLRO) process and ignition interlock laws. Today, they continue to champion a stricter BAC limit of 0.05% in pursuit of even greater safety.

Beyond legislation, Mrs. McNamee and her team have created spaces for healing and remembrance, such as the annual Candlelight Vigil, where HPD officers are honored and victims are supported. MADD Hawaii’s Victim Services Program has offered emotional support and vital resources to those affected by impaired driving, ensuring they are never alone in their journey.

In 2024, MADD Hawaii celebrated its 40th anniversary with impactful events like Walk Like MADD, a family-friendly 5K at Kakaʻako Waterfront Park that raised awareness and funds to combat drunk and drugged driving. The year also featured Saturation Saturday, where MADD volunteers partnered with law enforcement at DUI checkpoints to reward sober drivers, and sign-waving events that brought the community together to honor lives lost and advocate for sober driving.

Mrs. McNamee’s contributions have earned national recognition, including the President’s Golden Achievement Award from MADD and the National Commission Against Drunk Driving’s Service Award. Yet, her most lasting legacy is the enduring partnership she helped forge between MADD and law enforcement—especially the Honolulu Police Department.

Through education, advocacy, and compassionate service, MADD Hawaii continues to directly advance HPD’s mission of ensuring public safety. Their consistent collaboration has enhanced community awareness, strengthened prevention efforts, and reinforced the shared goal of eliminating impaired driving from Hawaiʻi’s roads.

It is with deep appreciation and respect that HPD’s Traffic Division puts forth this nomination. Mrs. Carol McNamee and MADD Hawaii exemplify what it means to be outstanding citizens. Their vision, persistence, and selfless service have made a measurable difference—and we are all safer because of it.