On February 26, 2024, the Nā Pono No Nā ‘Ohana Program visited WLC to learn about canoe and medicinal plants. Aunty Ilima Ho-Lastimosa, Community Coordinator and native to Waimānalo, shared the uses of ‘olena, niu, ulu, kukui, mamaki, and many other canoe and la’au plants with the families. The keiki used their senses to kilo (observe) the environment.  They gathered ‘olena (turmeric) and kukui, got to feel the prickly outer skin of a soursop, and held millipedes as they dug in the lepo (dirt). Program participant Makoa McCallister’s makuahine (mother) shared, “I liked finding the different color ‘olena with my son.” The families supported outdoor learning by encouraging keiki to be free, explore, and investigate. It was a great day to be outdoors!

Written by: Cheri Richards

For the full Waimānalo Loves Literacy Week Schedule:
Waimānalo Loves Literacy Flyer

For the full Waimānalo Loves Literacy Week Schedule:
Waimānalo Loves Literacy Flyer

For more events during the Waimānalo Loves Literacy week of fun:
Waimānalo Loves Literacy Flyer

See here for a full list of the family fun events!
Waimānalo Loves Literacy Flyer

In a dedicated effort to deepen their connection to ʻāina and foster a profound understanding of their local environment, students at Mālama Honua recently have been working on their Uka and Wai Projects. This endeavor delves into the intricate web of Hawaiian flora and fauna found in the uka (upland) regions, as well as examines our critical resource of wai (water), emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts.

The projects tasked students with researching an aspect of wai or illustrating and researching a chosen animal or plant that is native to the upland areas of Hawaiʻi. These comprehensive presentations cover various aspects, including conservation of resources, fun facts, habitat, etc. The initiative not only showcases the students’ creativity but also highlights their dedication to learning about and preserving the biodiversity and ecosystems that make Hawaiʻi unique.

Kahea (Mālama Honua 4th grader) highlighted that only 3% of the world’s water is suitable for drinking, calling attention to the critical role water plays in sustaining life. Willa shared traditional wisdom, stating, “Our kupuna would save water in their ʻipu for access to fresh water during droughts.” Reese added, “Drought is likely in lower climates with less rain,” emphasizing the vulnerability of certain regions to water scarcity. 

Aryana, a participating second grade student, shared insights into the Uka project’s significance, “Our Uka Project is about different plants and animals that live in uka. It is important because many of our plants and animals in Hawaiʻi are endangered.” This sentiment echoes the broader awareness among the students about the fragile state of the local ecosystem. Kauʻi, emphasized the urgency of the conservation message, “It is our kuleana to mālama the birds that are endangered. We have invasive animals and plants that are ruining our ecosystem.” This acknowledgment underscores the students’ commitment to preserving the delicate balance of Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems.

These projects not only serve as a platform for students to showcase their research skills but also facilitates a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between the environment and the community. The Mālama Honua students are not merely learning about plants and animals; they are cultivating pilina with ʻāina, acknowledging their responsibility as stewards of the land. This project encourages students to see the interconnectedness of land, sea, and sky. Through their dedication to understanding the ʻāina and its inhabitants, they are actively engaging in the preservation and mālama of Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems. It is evident that Mālama Honua students are not just acquiring knowledge; these students are taking meaningful steps towards a more sustainable and harmonious future for our islands.

Written by Cassidy Cox

CUTTER CHEVROLET & CUTTER FORD ALONG WITH 94.7 KUMU
INSPIRE AND EQUIP KEIKI TO GET BACK-TO-SCHOOL
The keiki of the Partners in Development Foundation’s programs in underserved communities will receive supplies and support as they prepare for an in-person school year.

Shoppers will have an opportunity to support Hawaiʻi’s keiki of Partners in Development Foundation (PIDF) on Saturday, July 24th from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM at the WalMart in the Town Center of Mililani. The Back-to-School Supply Drive is sponsored by the family operated Cutter Chevrolet and Cutter Ford dealerships, in partnership with 94.7 KUMU-FM of Pacific Media Group.

Supporters and donors will have a chance to check out the 94.7 KUMU-FM Rise and Drive Morning Host Esme Infante’s Cutter Chevy Traverse “Xena” while dropping off donations to help our underserved youth. The supplies will support preschool- and elementary-aged keiki of two PIDF programs that aim to serve (ALICE) Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed Communities.

The Ka Paʻalana family education program serves the Leeward coast of Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island, and Nā Pono No Nā ʻOhana, youth education program, serves ʻohana in Waimānalo. The Cutter team aims to equip over 300 keiki with basic school supplies – plus, 87x backpacks filled with school supplies for the keiki at Hope Shelter. Any additional donations will support keiki at other Ka Paʻalana preschool sites as well as Nā Pono No Nā ʻOhana.

The Back-to-School Supply Drive will feature music and prize giveaways from supporting sponsors, including Ruby Tuesday Hawaii, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ, Jeans Warehouse, and Raising Canes.

Can’t make it to the drive but still want to support our keiki? Make a donation here and help us raise a goal of $1,000!

ʻEleu is a consortium of Hawaiian nonprofit organizations geared and dedicated to the inclusion and promotion of early childhood education. For over 15 years, we have worked to advocate for legislative and community initiatives to impact early learning for the keiki of Hawaiʻi nei.

This year’s ʻEleu Rally included readings from several legislators such as Representative Val Okimoto and Senator Michelle Kidani. Others in the capitol also came down or opened their offices to interact with the families and children, and learn more about the urgent need for improved and universal early childhood education.

“We must challenge ourselves and our leaders to take seriously the need for public and personal attention to – as well as investment in the formation and care of our children,” said PIDF president Jan Dill.

Mahalo to all the staff for their hard work in putting on the rally, the families for their dedication to their keiki and our programs, and to all those who came out today in support!

Preschool sites with our Tūtū and Me Traveling Preschool, Ka Paʻalana Homeless Family Education, and Nā Pono No Nā ʻOhana Family Education programs went on huakaʻi (field trips) to either Aloun Farms or Waimānalo Country Farms, depending on where the sites are based.

Keiki were able to enjoy all kinds of activities from hay rides and petting zoos to the quintessential pumpkin picking. 

Mahalo to Aloun Farms and Waimānalo Country Farms for hosting our families and staff! We look forward to coming back next year.