news & updates
Our team recently traveled far, far, away from daily distractions and connectivity to spend the most meaningful time together and learn from others doing important work around our islands. It is hard to find the words to express what we all experienced, but we can say it was a great privilege to open up ancient loʻi that have not had kalo growing in them for generations. It was our small kōkua to the many ways we were cared for and nourished by the ʻāina and those who steward. We are refreshed and inspired to carry on the kuleana we’ve been given the privilege to carry. Mahalo nui Ke Akua, and all those you assigned to this trip, for the pilina, the stories, the songs, and the life transforming time we spent together.
Mahalo nunui Kalani Akau for capturing the beauty and essence of our magical time together with Kinohi Loa. This video is a treasure. Great job!
Our Latest Community Connections & Staff Updates
In March, we had the incredible honor of hosting a booth at the 17th annual Mālama Hāloa Festival at Bishop Museum—and what an unforgettable experience it was! 🌱✨
It was amazing to see the community come together to celebrate Hāloa, share knowledge about the many kalo varieties, and dive deep into the story of the ʻApuwai variety through moʻolelo and mele. We loved building pilina with fellow organizations and community members, all connected by a shared love for ‘āina and culture.
Mahalo nui to Kanewai for inviting us to be part of this special event! We had an absolute blast and would love to join again next year.
We’re excited to share that our staff successfully completed the American Red Cross Adult & Child First Aid/CPR/AED with Anaphylaxis & Epi Auto-Injector Safety Course this week!
Mahalo nui to Altres for partnering with us to provide these essential certifications for our team. We are grateful for the opportunity to ensure a safer environment for our community!
We were honored to host a table at the first-ever Native Hawaiian Organization Association Community Showcase in October. It was an amazing opportunity to connect with inspiring people and build stronger pilina with other organizations. We’re excited about the positive impacts we can make together in our community!
Student Led Updates
ASA participant, Tehani, is putting her learning into action! Listen in as she is using the Hawaiian Moon Calendar as her guide, she’s planting kalo at home and sharing her knowledge with others. This is exactly what it’s all about—taking the tools learned in our program and carrying them into our homes, families, and communities. Way to go, Tehani!! Mahalo for sharing your ʻike with everyone! 💚
2024: A Year In Review
Music Credit: East Side Slack Key by Kawika Kahiapo
We are deeply grateful for our incredible community of volunteers, customers, haumāna, kumu, kūpuna, donors, funders, partners, supporters, and our ‘ohana. Together, we’ve accomplished so much this year, and we can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve in the year ahead!
If you’d like to help us continue making a positive impact, please consider making a donation. Your support means the world to us and fuels the work we do. Mahalo for being part of our journey!