For nearly a century, tourism has been one of the major industries in Hawai‘i. One of the biggest shifts to happen in recent years is in how people vacation. The concept of volunteering on vacation is one of more welcome changes and has been embraced across the islands. Sometimes called “voluntourism”, the idea is dedicate some of your time and energy to a noble cause while visiting a new place. If you’re visiting Hawai‘i this holiday season (or anytime), there’s some great opportunities to be found on each island to get involved and help make a difference.
Hawai‘i Food Banks
Food banks are some of the better known charity organizations around the country, and local food banks are always in need of donations and volunteers. There are three organizations across the islands that share in the goal of making sure those that need food assistance won’t go without. For the islands of O‘ahu and Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i Food Bank is the go-to organization. On the island of Maui, it’s the Maui Food Bank, while Big Island’s organization is called The Food Basket. All of these organizations are good options to donate to around the holidays. They are very active in their communities and provide a much needed service for local families. Whether you’re able to donate your time and energy, money, or non-perishable food items, you’ll know that your efforts are being put to good use. Consider keeping an eye out for buy-one-get-one free deals to donate when grocery shopping—that extra bag of rice or other non-perishable can be put to good use by the food banks.
Hawai‘i Land Trust
The Hawaii Land Trust (HILT) is a land conservation organization that is active across the state. Their work focuses on not just protecting natural and cultural areas, but also caring for the land and making sure people can access and connect with nature. (The three pillars of their organization are protect, steward and connect.) They recognize that making sure there is clean water and natural environments is not only beneficial for the land, but also for the people that. Volunteering with HILT usually entails beach and forest cleanups, planting native vegetation and removing invasive species. The process is very community oriented and educational, and by the end of the volunteer day you’re pretty much guaranteed to have a greater appreciation for the land around you. Volunteer days differ depending on the location, with many occurring on weekends. Check their website to see upcoming opportunities on the different islands. Not only is a good way to spend your time, you also get exposed to natural areas that aren’t on many visitor’s radar.
Maui Long Term Recovery
The island of Maui is facing a lot of hardship. The wildfire disaster of August 2023 devastated the Lahaina community and the effects will be felt for years to come. There’s a lot to do and throughout the recovery knowing how and where to help can be hard to navigate. Some of the best options to volunteer in immediate and impactful ways is through the Ho‘ola ia Mauiakama Disater Long Term Recovery Group. Rather than one organization, it’s a coalition of groups that are dedicated to helping the Maui community recover. From debris cleanup, to donation distribution, to emotional and mental well being, there are lots of opportunities to help those that have had their lives turned upside down. Many of the volunteer opportunities don’t require previous experience—they help train and educate volunteers, while also providing most of the tools and equipment needed. Just keep in mind that sturdy, closed toed shoes or work boots, as well as long pants and sleeves, are required if you’re hoping to help with some of the more labor-intensive jobs.
Malama Hawai‘i
To help encourage more voluntourism, the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority launched the Malama Hawai‘i program a few years ago. Through this program, when you volunteer your time to help with select non-profits and community organizations you in turn earn a little something back. Namely, a discount or free night stay with participating hotels. This program is active on all the islands (even Moloka‘i) and can make for a great incentive to get out and get involved in regenerative toursim. The list of volunteer options is always changing, so check out their website for the opportunities that work best with your schedule.
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