LK Alumni Network Impact Evaluation*
This survey reflects Leadership Kaua'i’s commitment to more clearly identify the impact of its training, to secure funding to serve its’ Mission – to provide more leaders for our island community.
350Leadership Kaua'i Alumni from 2005 to 2023. |
100%Satisfaction with the Leadership Kaua'i Adult Training Program. |
61Community projects since 2005. Impacting 35% of island residents. |
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*Data gathered from 2019 Survey
Community Projects
Here are some of the many community service projects done by our students over the years. At Leadership Kaua'i, we believe that leadership is foundational to the successful implementation and completion of impactful community projects.
2005
Community Project 2005
The first graduating class of the Pi'ina Hoku Youth Leadership Program in 2007.
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Pi'ina Hoku Youth Leadership Program
August 2005 Pi`ina Hoku Youth Leadership Program: August 2005 – The program was initiated by the adult class of 2005 who conducted the ground work and planning while the class of 2006 implemented and executed the program. The first class of twenty Pi`ina Hoku youth leadership program participants graduated in April 2007. (Left) |
2007
Community Projects 2007
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Kaua`i PTSA
June 2007 This project implemented a website to bring PTSA programs from each school together.The Kaua`i PTSA site serves as an informational tool to make it easier for parents to get involved. All middle school and elementary schools participated in the development of the site to list contact information and meeting times for each PTSA. Grants from KIUC were utilized to implement and host Kaua'i PTSA.org. Pi’ina Hoku Youth Program, Kapa`a New Park Beautification & Skate Contest February 3, 2007 The project focused on beautification and painting of the Kapa`a skate park in collaboration with local artists to help deter vandalism. March 31, 2007 - A skate contest was held for the youth in our community to enjoy the newly restored skate park. Jump Start, Assisting Non-Profit Organizations June 2007 The project provided a presentation and document of resources and tools local non-profit organizations need to succeed. Got Drugs? Awareness Speaker Series I August 7, 2007 Presentations were given by Gary Shimabukuro, Laulima Hawai'i and Keith Kamita, Department of Public Safety Narcotics Enforcement Division Chief to raise awareness on drug use and prevention. Gary shared his vision for “Many hands, hearts and minds working together to create a drug-free Hawai'i.” Kapa`a “Home Field” Stadium September 2007 This project was managed and implemented to fulfill the desire for a new stadium to be available for Kapa`a High school (the only school on island that did not have a stadium.) Today and for many years to come, both local schools and sports groups use and enjoy the facilities. Global Warming Awareness “An Inconvenient Truth” Showing & Panel December 8, 2007 - This project provided a complimentary showing of the movie “An Inconvenient Truth” and a panel discussion with local leaders who provided insight and raised awareness island wide to the effects of global warming and what our community can do on Kaua`i to make a difference globally. |
2008
Community Projects 2008
Image from HistoricHawaii.org of the Kapa'a Japanese Lantern.
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Japanese Stone Lantern Restoration
January – March 2008 Designated as one of “The Nine Most Endangered Historic Sites in Hawai`i” by the Historic Hawai'i Foundation, the Kapa`a Stone Lantern has a significant historic and cultural value and is an educational asset as well. The project will preserve a civic monument that will enhance community pride. To learn more about this project and how you can help go to: www.kbakauai.org. Got Drugs? Awareness Speaker Series II February 6, 2008 Follow on to the first Speaker Series in August 2007, these presentations were scheduled by Leadership Kaua`i Alumni continuing the effort to raise awareness on drug use and prevention with Gary Shimabukuro, Laualima Hawai'i, Mark Middleton, Martin County Sheriff’s Dept., and Thomas Janette and Scott Duva of the Connecticut Narcotic Enforcement Officer Association (CNEOA). |
Pi’ina Hoku Youth Program, Operation: Restore Polihale
February – May 2008
This project took place over four clean up days working with the State of Hawaii, dedicated to restoring camping and bathroom facilities, running water, and beauty of Polihale. Efforts included general clean up of the area, implementation of boundary markers, painting of vandalized bathrooms and picnic tables, fixture replacement and vegetation cutback.
Aukahi Life Skills
March 11, 2008
The Aukahi Life Skills project mission is to provide the youth of Kaua’i basic life skill resources to ease the transition from high school to self-sufficiency via a youth-oriented Web page focused on the following major areas: 1) work readiness, 2) coping skills, and 3) money management. The March 11th fair featured several booths with informational handouts and speakers from the community who represented the three major areas. Students also had opportunities to have one-on-one discussions with the speakers.
Mentor Program
May – June 2008
The Mentor program’s vision is to create an awareness and perpetuate the values and practices of the Kaua`i longitudinal study that made the Keiki resilient. The Mentor program is working in collaboration with the Kukui Malamalama program to mentor youth of Kaua`i, a chance to help shape the future of Kaua`i’s children through support and guidance. Kukui Malamalama’s monthly training events provide strategies for mentors to help build self-esteem, positive self-image and trust in our youth through healthy role modeling.
Through this process we hope to decrease anxiety and destructive cycles in youth and strengthen family relationships so they can lead successful, enriched and meaningful lives.
February – May 2008
This project took place over four clean up days working with the State of Hawaii, dedicated to restoring camping and bathroom facilities, running water, and beauty of Polihale. Efforts included general clean up of the area, implementation of boundary markers, painting of vandalized bathrooms and picnic tables, fixture replacement and vegetation cutback.
Aukahi Life Skills
March 11, 2008
The Aukahi Life Skills project mission is to provide the youth of Kaua’i basic life skill resources to ease the transition from high school to self-sufficiency via a youth-oriented Web page focused on the following major areas: 1) work readiness, 2) coping skills, and 3) money management. The March 11th fair featured several booths with informational handouts and speakers from the community who represented the three major areas. Students also had opportunities to have one-on-one discussions with the speakers.
Mentor Program
May – June 2008
The Mentor program’s vision is to create an awareness and perpetuate the values and practices of the Kaua`i longitudinal study that made the Keiki resilient. The Mentor program is working in collaboration with the Kukui Malamalama program to mentor youth of Kaua`i, a chance to help shape the future of Kaua`i’s children through support and guidance. Kukui Malamalama’s monthly training events provide strategies for mentors to help build self-esteem, positive self-image and trust in our youth through healthy role modeling.
Through this process we hope to decrease anxiety and destructive cycles in youth and strengthen family relationships so they can lead successful, enriched and meaningful lives.
2009
Community Projects 2009
Teen Zone ~ “Da Zone”
February – March 2009
“Da Zone” is a safe and fun environment for teens to engage in a variety of diverse activities including live music, arts & culture, sports, science, environment, career/occupational, and personal, social, and leadership development.
Pi`ina Hoku “Follow Our Future Leaders” Fun Run Benefit
April 11, 2009
Members of the Pi`ina Hoku 2009 Youth Program committed their community project efforts to the “Follow our Future Leaders” Fun Run held Saturday April 11th, 2009 in Waimea. Over 80 runners came to participate in a 2k and 5k run. This community project raised funds to support 2009-2010 Pi`ina Hoku participant scholarships. The run was a huge success & the youth class raised $2,500 to split among all 20 participants, reducing their tuition fee to half.
Special Needs Shelter
June 2009
The Special Needs Shelter Workgroup mission is to address the needs of the community in an emergency within four different classifications of emergency shelters on the island: General Population, Level I, Level II, and Level III shelters. Plans exist for Level II shelters around the island, but deployment has not been finalized. Locations have been proposed, but no needs assessment has been completed to determine actual projected unit counts or appropriate geographic distribution. People seeking Level II shelters would be “individuals who have ongoing ‘enhanced special health needs’ and who, by the nature of their condition, need a heightened level of attention.” [Interagency Action Plan for the Emergency Preparedness of People with Disabilities and Special Health Needs, 2008] People requiring Level II sheltering are those in need of special attendant medical care, electricity to power medical devices and refrigeration for medication, and those in need of special assistance to perform activities of daily living or manage alone in an evacuation shelter. We will bring together the valuable work and people of the various stakeholders into an effective coalition.
Got Drug Awareness? Speaker Series III
June 2009
Community event series with a focus on drug prevention on Kaua`i. The presentations feature Mr. Gary Shimabukuro of Laulima Hawaii, on June 2 (Chiefess Kamakahelei), June 3 (Waimea Neighborhood Center), and June 4 (Princeville Golf Club), at 5:30pm each evening. The evening will also feature other speakers from the Kaua’i Drug Action Team, the Kaua’i Police Department, and a rehabilitation specialist.
The Waipa Ahupua`a: Educational Project
June 2009
The Waipa Ahupua`a: Educational Project’s mission is to construct a model of the Waipa Ahapua‘a for the Waipa Educational Center, create an educational poster and organize an educational planting at Waipa.
February – March 2009
“Da Zone” is a safe and fun environment for teens to engage in a variety of diverse activities including live music, arts & culture, sports, science, environment, career/occupational, and personal, social, and leadership development.
Pi`ina Hoku “Follow Our Future Leaders” Fun Run Benefit
April 11, 2009
Members of the Pi`ina Hoku 2009 Youth Program committed their community project efforts to the “Follow our Future Leaders” Fun Run held Saturday April 11th, 2009 in Waimea. Over 80 runners came to participate in a 2k and 5k run. This community project raised funds to support 2009-2010 Pi`ina Hoku participant scholarships. The run was a huge success & the youth class raised $2,500 to split among all 20 participants, reducing their tuition fee to half.
Special Needs Shelter
June 2009
The Special Needs Shelter Workgroup mission is to address the needs of the community in an emergency within four different classifications of emergency shelters on the island: General Population, Level I, Level II, and Level III shelters. Plans exist for Level II shelters around the island, but deployment has not been finalized. Locations have been proposed, but no needs assessment has been completed to determine actual projected unit counts or appropriate geographic distribution. People seeking Level II shelters would be “individuals who have ongoing ‘enhanced special health needs’ and who, by the nature of their condition, need a heightened level of attention.” [Interagency Action Plan for the Emergency Preparedness of People with Disabilities and Special Health Needs, 2008] People requiring Level II sheltering are those in need of special attendant medical care, electricity to power medical devices and refrigeration for medication, and those in need of special assistance to perform activities of daily living or manage alone in an evacuation shelter. We will bring together the valuable work and people of the various stakeholders into an effective coalition.
Got Drug Awareness? Speaker Series III
June 2009
Community event series with a focus on drug prevention on Kaua`i. The presentations feature Mr. Gary Shimabukuro of Laulima Hawaii, on June 2 (Chiefess Kamakahelei), June 3 (Waimea Neighborhood Center), and June 4 (Princeville Golf Club), at 5:30pm each evening. The evening will also feature other speakers from the Kaua’i Drug Action Team, the Kaua’i Police Department, and a rehabilitation specialist.
The Waipa Ahupua`a: Educational Project
June 2009
The Waipa Ahupua`a: Educational Project’s mission is to construct a model of the Waipa Ahapua‘a for the Waipa Educational Center, create an educational poster and organize an educational planting at Waipa.
2010
Community Projects 2010
Laulima Keiki Scholarship Fund
June 2010
The project provides Kaua`i youth ages 7-18 with scholarships for travel and/or program resources (e.g. airfare, equipment, shoes, registration fees, etc.) to participate in program activities involving arts & culture, education and sports. This project intends to provide alternative learning and health opportunities for the youth of Kaua`i who would otherwise be limited due to economic hardship. The mission of Laulima Keiki is education and opportunity will overcome adversity. To assist sporting activities for the poor and needy this project aims to provide scholarships for 120 youth.
Pulama Kupuna
June 2010
This group reaches out to Kaua`i’s Kupuna. Their goal is to recruit a constant pool of volunteers and coordinate with four elderly care programs on the island of Kaua`i: Alu Like, Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital, Garden Isle Healthcare, and Hale Kupuna Heritage Home including the County of Kaua`i Agency on Elderly Affairs to increase visitation and foster relationships between Kupuna and members of the community. Special interest in recruiting and working with student volunteers (at the high school level) with a focus on increasing visitation during times of the year that are especially difficult, such as the months following the holiday season will be important pieces of this project. Volunteers will be recruited through publicity campaigns and a project Website working closely with the four elderly care programs mentioned above to administer any training volunteer may need. In addition, a database of volunteers interested in working with Kaua`i’s aging population will be developed and maintained to continue the program indefinitely, further expanding to meet the needs of all of Kaua`i’s Kupuna. This project will help to bridge generational gaps in the community, save the histories of our Kupuna and ease the burden of caretakers of the elderly, including family members and non-profit staff suffering from budget cuts. In addition, it will draw attention to care of the elderly and create a pool of volunteers for the future. Currently 1 in 8 Americans is over the age of 65; by 2030 that number will double. This project also provides Kaua`i’s youth with a positive program that teaches about health care and builds both self-esteem and a sense of social responsibility. This project will affect 310 kupuna at the various care homes participating in this project.
Hui Holomua (Battery Recycling Program)
June 2010
Currently, the people of Kaua`i only have one opportunity to properly dispose of their hazardous materials, including household batteries, which is provided annually by the County. We will provide a location(s) where people can not only properly dispose of their household batteries, but have them actually recycled. It will be easily accessible and available year-round. Our hope is that this will alleviate some of the stress from the County landfills and eliminate some of the hazardous toxins that are escaping into our environment. This project will provide a year-round location(s) for the proper recycling of household (alkaline) batteries. This is essential in considering the environment and also to create space in our island landfills. Household batteries contain cadmium, lead, lithium, mercury, nickel, silver, and zinc. These metals can detrimentally harm the environment by discharging into our water systems or into the air and soil. With long-term exposure to these metals, they can cause numerous health ailments to the people of our society. These include (but are not limited to): damage to the lungs, circulatory systems, and reproductive systems; cause genetic, neurological, or psychological disorders; damage to the brain, kidneys, or fetuses; cause development disorders and immune deficiency.
Pi`ina Hoku, Youth Program KEEP Project
June 2010
Through partnerships with KIUC, Blue Planet Foundation, and Trex Enterprise, this project group will create and development the Kaua`i Energy Education Program, www.KEEProgram.org. The project has three components 1) interactive website that allows site-visitors to self assess their home energy consumption, information on costs involved to retrofit to a more energy efficient movement and basic energy-wise information 2) Use data from the existing assessment that the high school facilities already have through KIUC and begin an awareness retrofitting to meet energy efficient standards 3) Through the use of the Kill A Watt, an instrument to measure consumption, each student will conduct a personal energy assessments of their own homes and share the data on their website along with a video demonstration on how to use the Kill A Watt.
June 2010
The project provides Kaua`i youth ages 7-18 with scholarships for travel and/or program resources (e.g. airfare, equipment, shoes, registration fees, etc.) to participate in program activities involving arts & culture, education and sports. This project intends to provide alternative learning and health opportunities for the youth of Kaua`i who would otherwise be limited due to economic hardship. The mission of Laulima Keiki is education and opportunity will overcome adversity. To assist sporting activities for the poor and needy this project aims to provide scholarships for 120 youth.
Pulama Kupuna
June 2010
This group reaches out to Kaua`i’s Kupuna. Their goal is to recruit a constant pool of volunteers and coordinate with four elderly care programs on the island of Kaua`i: Alu Like, Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital, Garden Isle Healthcare, and Hale Kupuna Heritage Home including the County of Kaua`i Agency on Elderly Affairs to increase visitation and foster relationships between Kupuna and members of the community. Special interest in recruiting and working with student volunteers (at the high school level) with a focus on increasing visitation during times of the year that are especially difficult, such as the months following the holiday season will be important pieces of this project. Volunteers will be recruited through publicity campaigns and a project Website working closely with the four elderly care programs mentioned above to administer any training volunteer may need. In addition, a database of volunteers interested in working with Kaua`i’s aging population will be developed and maintained to continue the program indefinitely, further expanding to meet the needs of all of Kaua`i’s Kupuna. This project will help to bridge generational gaps in the community, save the histories of our Kupuna and ease the burden of caretakers of the elderly, including family members and non-profit staff suffering from budget cuts. In addition, it will draw attention to care of the elderly and create a pool of volunteers for the future. Currently 1 in 8 Americans is over the age of 65; by 2030 that number will double. This project also provides Kaua`i’s youth with a positive program that teaches about health care and builds both self-esteem and a sense of social responsibility. This project will affect 310 kupuna at the various care homes participating in this project.
Hui Holomua (Battery Recycling Program)
June 2010
Currently, the people of Kaua`i only have one opportunity to properly dispose of their hazardous materials, including household batteries, which is provided annually by the County. We will provide a location(s) where people can not only properly dispose of their household batteries, but have them actually recycled. It will be easily accessible and available year-round. Our hope is that this will alleviate some of the stress from the County landfills and eliminate some of the hazardous toxins that are escaping into our environment. This project will provide a year-round location(s) for the proper recycling of household (alkaline) batteries. This is essential in considering the environment and also to create space in our island landfills. Household batteries contain cadmium, lead, lithium, mercury, nickel, silver, and zinc. These metals can detrimentally harm the environment by discharging into our water systems or into the air and soil. With long-term exposure to these metals, they can cause numerous health ailments to the people of our society. These include (but are not limited to): damage to the lungs, circulatory systems, and reproductive systems; cause genetic, neurological, or psychological disorders; damage to the brain, kidneys, or fetuses; cause development disorders and immune deficiency.
Pi`ina Hoku, Youth Program KEEP Project
June 2010
Through partnerships with KIUC, Blue Planet Foundation, and Trex Enterprise, this project group will create and development the Kaua`i Energy Education Program, www.KEEProgram.org. The project has three components 1) interactive website that allows site-visitors to self assess their home energy consumption, information on costs involved to retrofit to a more energy efficient movement and basic energy-wise information 2) Use data from the existing assessment that the high school facilities already have through KIUC and begin an awareness retrofitting to meet energy efficient standards 3) Through the use of the Kill A Watt, an instrument to measure consumption, each student will conduct a personal energy assessments of their own homes and share the data on their website along with a video demonstration on how to use the Kill A Watt.
2011
Community Projects 2011
Intergenerational Houselessness Outreach Project
January 2011
The youth and the adult leadership program teamed up together with the Hanapepe Salvation Army and local dentists to provide the community with a service project that focused on the Homeless on Kaua’i. Dr. Trisha Kehaulani Watson from UH-Manoa, author and contributor to the book, The Value of Hawai’i, spoke to our students and other interested community members regarding “Restoring Our Homes – Hope, Homelessness and Humanity.” Our students prepared and served a lunch in the Soup Kitchen and we assembled over 200 hygiene kits that were passed out at Salt Pond and Lucy Wright Park.
Intergenerational Stewardship Project
March 2011
Both of our leadership classes and RYLA camp students came together to provide a stewardship project for the Waipa Foundation on Kaua’i’s North Shore. Four hours of service were spent helping a local mahi’ai (farmer) eradicate weeds and pink menace apple snail eggs from his lo’i kalo (taro patch). Under Stacy Sproat’s direction, three hours of labor were spent landscaping the fishpond in the Waipa ahupua’a (land section that runs from mountain to see) with native plants. Not only were traditional Hawaiian farming methods learned, but students developed a strong sense of place and aloha for this unique area.
Pi’ina Hoku Program, Operation T.H.O.T.- Teens Helping Other Teens
April 201
Our youth program, Pi’ina Hoku, with the help of Councilman Tim Bynum, identified their community project for the year to bring awareness of teen issues (underage drinking, illegal drug use, teenage pregnancy, depression/suicide) to their peers. Adam Prall of ThinkingMan.com and our youth leaders created a website (www.Thot.LeadershipKauai.org) for a national contest that awarded a $500 cash prize for the best media entry that brought a positive light to one of those issues. The students raised the money through service to the West Kaua’i Rotary Club and the winning entry was announced and streamed LIVE at their leadership graduation at the Kaua’i Beach Resort on April 16, 2011.
Stewardship Projects
August 2010 & May 2011
Both of our leadership classes worked for a combined 8 hours to eradicate blackberry from the Kaluapuhi Trail in Koke’e under the direction of Brad Soria and Hui o Laka.
Got 1, Gave 1-Volunteer Kaua’i
April 2011
The goal for this group is to bridge together volunteers with nonprofit organizations. Their first project, “Hot Rocks for Humanity” included a community imu as an incentive for every person living on Kaua’i to donate at least 1 hour of volunteerism and canned food items for the local Food Bank. Local non-profit organizations were on hand to provide information on their services and to sign up new volunteers. www.volunteerkauai.org
E Aloha Kaua’i
June 2011
This group wanted to do something about the gradual disappearance of aloha from our daily routine. They have developed 2 components to revitalize the aloha spirit here on Kaua’i: 1) an education pilot program that will help students in a local high school’s leadership development class to grow a deep sense of belonging to a community and desire to care for one another; and 2) “Acts of Aloha” that selects 4 events a year for their network of volunteers to participate in that will benefit the community.
Mauka Makai
June 2011
This group’s mission is to provide at risk students in grades 6 through 12 with opportunities to learn about Kaua’i’s mountain and ocean ecosystems through experiential education and literacy with a cultural connection. Activities currently include eradicating invasive species in Koke’e’s forests, beach cleanups, zoning for the monk seal and pup sitting projects.
January 2011
The youth and the adult leadership program teamed up together with the Hanapepe Salvation Army and local dentists to provide the community with a service project that focused on the Homeless on Kaua’i. Dr. Trisha Kehaulani Watson from UH-Manoa, author and contributor to the book, The Value of Hawai’i, spoke to our students and other interested community members regarding “Restoring Our Homes – Hope, Homelessness and Humanity.” Our students prepared and served a lunch in the Soup Kitchen and we assembled over 200 hygiene kits that were passed out at Salt Pond and Lucy Wright Park.
Intergenerational Stewardship Project
March 2011
Both of our leadership classes and RYLA camp students came together to provide a stewardship project for the Waipa Foundation on Kaua’i’s North Shore. Four hours of service were spent helping a local mahi’ai (farmer) eradicate weeds and pink menace apple snail eggs from his lo’i kalo (taro patch). Under Stacy Sproat’s direction, three hours of labor were spent landscaping the fishpond in the Waipa ahupua’a (land section that runs from mountain to see) with native plants. Not only were traditional Hawaiian farming methods learned, but students developed a strong sense of place and aloha for this unique area.
Pi’ina Hoku Program, Operation T.H.O.T.- Teens Helping Other Teens
April 201
Our youth program, Pi’ina Hoku, with the help of Councilman Tim Bynum, identified their community project for the year to bring awareness of teen issues (underage drinking, illegal drug use, teenage pregnancy, depression/suicide) to their peers. Adam Prall of ThinkingMan.com and our youth leaders created a website (www.Thot.LeadershipKauai.org) for a national contest that awarded a $500 cash prize for the best media entry that brought a positive light to one of those issues. The students raised the money through service to the West Kaua’i Rotary Club and the winning entry was announced and streamed LIVE at their leadership graduation at the Kaua’i Beach Resort on April 16, 2011.
Stewardship Projects
August 2010 & May 2011
Both of our leadership classes worked for a combined 8 hours to eradicate blackberry from the Kaluapuhi Trail in Koke’e under the direction of Brad Soria and Hui o Laka.
Got 1, Gave 1-Volunteer Kaua’i
April 2011
The goal for this group is to bridge together volunteers with nonprofit organizations. Their first project, “Hot Rocks for Humanity” included a community imu as an incentive for every person living on Kaua’i to donate at least 1 hour of volunteerism and canned food items for the local Food Bank. Local non-profit organizations were on hand to provide information on their services and to sign up new volunteers. www.volunteerkauai.org
E Aloha Kaua’i
June 2011
This group wanted to do something about the gradual disappearance of aloha from our daily routine. They have developed 2 components to revitalize the aloha spirit here on Kaua’i: 1) an education pilot program that will help students in a local high school’s leadership development class to grow a deep sense of belonging to a community and desire to care for one another; and 2) “Acts of Aloha” that selects 4 events a year for their network of volunteers to participate in that will benefit the community.
Mauka Makai
June 2011
This group’s mission is to provide at risk students in grades 6 through 12 with opportunities to learn about Kaua’i’s mountain and ocean ecosystems through experiential education and literacy with a cultural connection. Activities currently include eradicating invasive species in Koke’e’s forests, beach cleanups, zoning for the monk seal and pup sitting projects.
2012
Community Projects 2012
Ho`okanaka Awards
May 2012
This group wanted to raise the level of awareness regarding the importance of good leadership skills and to recognize the wonderful leaders in various capacities and roles island-wide. From this, the idea of an annual leadership awards ceremony was born and the team decided to name the awards after the key phrase from their class motto "Ho'okanaka" – “be someone” in the largest sense possible - to make a difference for the future, for the community, and even for the world. As part of this project, the group enlisted Mayor Carvalho to proclaim the entire month of May as “Leadership on Kauai` Month”. As a result of this project, 20 adults and 8
youth were nominated from throughout the community and 5 adult awards and 5 youth awards were presented at the awards ceremony on May 5. This awards process and ceremony will become an annual signature event for
Leadership Kaua`i. The Mayor’s Proclamation can be viewed on our YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/user/lkexdir.
“Maile or the Highway”
June 2012
Celebrating the importance of mailelauli’i, a native and endemic plant to Kaua’i, this group created and distributed statewide an informational DVD, and sponsored an essay contest for our island’s 4th and 5th graders, with the winners receiving an ice-cream party for their class. This video can be viewed on our YouTube Channel at: www.youtube.com/user/lkexdir
Drug & Alcohol Abuse Awareness Campaign
June 2012
This group created an impactful and informational DVD for funders, neighborhoods, schools & employers to utilize as a tool to help combat drug and alcohol abuse on Kaua`i. This DVD includes powerful interviews and statistics, and speaks to the need for help in Kaua`i for people with addiction to drugs and or alcohol.
Intergenerational Project – Kupuna Day
January 2012
The adult and youth classes worked together to organize and host "Kupuna Day" at the Regency at Puakea on January 14th, 2012. This event included games, craft projects, karaoke, and other entertainment to uplift the Kupuna’s spirits. This project included interviews with a number of the Kupuna to gather information on their life experiences that is being compiled into a book or online source titled “Recipes for Life”.
Intergenerational Project “For Da Kids” Sports Day Camp
October 2011
This project was organized and led by the youth class and was supported by the adult class. “For Da Kids” Sports Day Camp was held on October 15th, 2011, and provided youth ages 4 – 13 years old a chance to learn a new sport, get active and have fun. More than 60 youth attended and rotated through three different sports throughout this day-long event: Soccer, Kickball, and Basketball.
“Let’s Get Local!”
March 2012
In partnership with the County "Kaua`i Grown" organization, our 2012 Pi`ina Hoku Youth Leadership class organized a special event during the farmers market at KCC on Saturday, March 17. The goal of this project was to encourage local teens to support our island farmers. This project included live entertainment, and a teen survey to identify what products would be of most interest to them at the various farmers markets around Kaua`i. As an incentive for teens to take the survey, the event concluded with a random drawing for one of the survey participants to win an ukulele.
May 2012
This group wanted to raise the level of awareness regarding the importance of good leadership skills and to recognize the wonderful leaders in various capacities and roles island-wide. From this, the idea of an annual leadership awards ceremony was born and the team decided to name the awards after the key phrase from their class motto "Ho'okanaka" – “be someone” in the largest sense possible - to make a difference for the future, for the community, and even for the world. As part of this project, the group enlisted Mayor Carvalho to proclaim the entire month of May as “Leadership on Kauai` Month”. As a result of this project, 20 adults and 8
youth were nominated from throughout the community and 5 adult awards and 5 youth awards were presented at the awards ceremony on May 5. This awards process and ceremony will become an annual signature event for
Leadership Kaua`i. The Mayor’s Proclamation can be viewed on our YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/user/lkexdir.
“Maile or the Highway”
June 2012
Celebrating the importance of mailelauli’i, a native and endemic plant to Kaua’i, this group created and distributed statewide an informational DVD, and sponsored an essay contest for our island’s 4th and 5th graders, with the winners receiving an ice-cream party for their class. This video can be viewed on our YouTube Channel at: www.youtube.com/user/lkexdir
Drug & Alcohol Abuse Awareness Campaign
June 2012
This group created an impactful and informational DVD for funders, neighborhoods, schools & employers to utilize as a tool to help combat drug and alcohol abuse on Kaua`i. This DVD includes powerful interviews and statistics, and speaks to the need for help in Kaua`i for people with addiction to drugs and or alcohol.
Intergenerational Project – Kupuna Day
January 2012
The adult and youth classes worked together to organize and host "Kupuna Day" at the Regency at Puakea on January 14th, 2012. This event included games, craft projects, karaoke, and other entertainment to uplift the Kupuna’s spirits. This project included interviews with a number of the Kupuna to gather information on their life experiences that is being compiled into a book or online source titled “Recipes for Life”.
Intergenerational Project “For Da Kids” Sports Day Camp
October 2011
This project was organized and led by the youth class and was supported by the adult class. “For Da Kids” Sports Day Camp was held on October 15th, 2011, and provided youth ages 4 – 13 years old a chance to learn a new sport, get active and have fun. More than 60 youth attended and rotated through three different sports throughout this day-long event: Soccer, Kickball, and Basketball.
“Let’s Get Local!”
March 2012
In partnership with the County "Kaua`i Grown" organization, our 2012 Pi`ina Hoku Youth Leadership class organized a special event during the farmers market at KCC on Saturday, March 17. The goal of this project was to encourage local teens to support our island farmers. This project included live entertainment, and a teen survey to identify what products would be of most interest to them at the various farmers markets around Kaua`i. As an incentive for teens to take the survey, the event concluded with a random drawing for one of the survey participants to win an ukulele.
2013
Community Projects 2013
Local Entrepreneur Videos
June 2013
This project consisted of interviewing and creating 6 videos featuring 6 successful businesses on Kaua’i. The goal of each video is to inspire more local people to embrace the entrepreneurial spirit and create new businesses of their own and made available through the Hawai’i Small Business Development Center. Another goal is to encourage our youth to return to Kaua’i after their college education by showing them successful local businesses.
Renewable Energy Technologies
Kekaha Community Garden
Machine Machine
Leadership Kaua’i Alumni Network
June 2013
Leadership Kaua’i has a strong network of alumni and this project brings them all into an online database so that alumni can continue to connect easily with each other and continue productive collaborations among organizations on Kaua’i. The database will also be available to Kaua’i high school seniors needing a mentor for their senior projects.
June 2013
This project consisted of interviewing and creating 6 videos featuring 6 successful businesses on Kaua’i. The goal of each video is to inspire more local people to embrace the entrepreneurial spirit and create new businesses of their own and made available through the Hawai’i Small Business Development Center. Another goal is to encourage our youth to return to Kaua’i after their college education by showing them successful local businesses.
Renewable Energy Technologies
Kekaha Community Garden
Machine Machine
Leadership Kaua’i Alumni Network
June 2013
Leadership Kaua’i has a strong network of alumni and this project brings them all into an online database so that alumni can continue to connect easily with each other and continue productive collaborations among organizations on Kaua’i. The database will also be available to Kaua’i high school seniors needing a mentor for their senior projects.
2014
Community Project 2014
Hanapepe Salt Pond Signage
June 2014
This is an informational sign for kāma‘āina and visitors that provides the history and culture of the Salt Ponds. The interpretive sign will include: the history of Hanapepe Salt Ponds (moku/ahupua’a), and the process of salt-making; the value of the 2 rare forms of salt – pa’akai (white sea salt) and ‘alae (red sea salt). The mission isto increase awareness of the cultural and historical significance of the salt pond, increase respect and care of salt bed, and increase cultural and historical value of salt beds.
June 2014
This is an informational sign for kāma‘āina and visitors that provides the history and culture of the Salt Ponds. The interpretive sign will include: the history of Hanapepe Salt Ponds (moku/ahupua’a), and the process of salt-making; the value of the 2 rare forms of salt – pa’akai (white sea salt) and ‘alae (red sea salt). The mission isto increase awareness of the cultural and historical significance of the salt pond, increase respect and care of salt bed, and increase cultural and historical value of salt beds.
2015
Community Projects 2015
Ohana Night at the Movies
June 2015
Knowing that finding something fun and safe to do on the weekends for our families and keiki is something they are ALWAYS looking for. So why not a movie night? Instead of driving all the way to Lihue or sitting at home on the couch they can grab our cousins and friends and go catch a movie in the park. Outdoor movie nights were held at Kehaha Softball Field and Vidhina Stadium for families to bond and enjoy themselves.
June 2015
Knowing that finding something fun and safe to do on the weekends for our families and keiki is something they are ALWAYS looking for. So why not a movie night? Instead of driving all the way to Lihue or sitting at home on the couch they can grab our cousins and friends and go catch a movie in the park. Outdoor movie nights were held at Kehaha Softball Field and Vidhina Stadium for families to bond and enjoy themselves.
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2016
Community Projects 2016
S.T.E.M. Project
June 2016
The best way to enhance the quality of life on Kauai is through education. Focused specifically on raising awareness of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, by supporting the 2016 Kauai Regional Science & Engineering Fair. They connected professionals to help at the fair, event coordination and logistics, inspired Kauai’s Youth by providing a fun and educational LED paper flashlight to make at the fair, grow the future events by collecting data for improvement and complied a DOE Directory resource for judges, mentors and supporters for future fairs.
"THE PROCESS"
June 2016
The Class of 2016 proposed to build a Football Storage Facility located within the Bryan J. Baptiste Sports Complex in the Kapa’a Ballpark. The project’s design and construction is a community-collaboration between Leadership Kauai and Kauai Pop Warner Football. The purpose of the Project is to safely and securely store costly athletic equipment, temporary shelters (pop-up tents), first-aid kits, and other related items in convenient proximity to the football stadium. This 20’ x 60’ unit divided into three 20’ x 20’ sections, and will include electricity and water spigots.
To date, the project is not complete and Leadership Kauai will assist Kauai Pop Warner with the submission of a $150,000 Haolo Lokahi grant administered by the County of Kauai, Department of Parks and Recreation. After the project’s construction and closeout of the grant, the County of Kauai will be responsible for its
maintenance and other related costs.
June 2016
The best way to enhance the quality of life on Kauai is through education. Focused specifically on raising awareness of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, by supporting the 2016 Kauai Regional Science & Engineering Fair. They connected professionals to help at the fair, event coordination and logistics, inspired Kauai’s Youth by providing a fun and educational LED paper flashlight to make at the fair, grow the future events by collecting data for improvement and complied a DOE Directory resource for judges, mentors and supporters for future fairs.
"THE PROCESS"
June 2016
The Class of 2016 proposed to build a Football Storage Facility located within the Bryan J. Baptiste Sports Complex in the Kapa’a Ballpark. The project’s design and construction is a community-collaboration between Leadership Kauai and Kauai Pop Warner Football. The purpose of the Project is to safely and securely store costly athletic equipment, temporary shelters (pop-up tents), first-aid kits, and other related items in convenient proximity to the football stadium. This 20’ x 60’ unit divided into three 20’ x 20’ sections, and will include electricity and water spigots.
To date, the project is not complete and Leadership Kauai will assist Kauai Pop Warner with the submission of a $150,000 Haolo Lokahi grant administered by the County of Kauai, Department of Parks and Recreation. After the project’s construction and closeout of the grant, the County of Kauai will be responsible for its
maintenance and other related costs.
2017
Community Projects 2017
Corn for Chrome Books August 2017 Corn for Chromebooks listened and heard the need for access to technology at Kekaha Elementary. With help from the Kekaha Elementary students and the westside community, this community project planted, harvested, then sold hundreds of corn to raise funds for Kekaha |
Career Roadmap: Health
May 2017 This program was created to explore the many career paths available in healthcare on Kauai. We seek to provide the tools to empower students to apply for college with a career goal in mind. Meet the Pros: Healthcare Professionals and Discover: Your Passion. Principal Debra Badua and faculty selected 12 students to attend five afterschool sessions for hands on learning with health professionals - Kaci Manion and Addison Bulason of The Specific Chiropractor, Cyrus Tumbaga of Lifeway Pharmacy, Dr. Punzal of Punzal Optometry, and Dr. Christopher Jorden of Wilcox Health. 
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students. In partnership with Hartung Brothers, the students raised corn at school while the LK team and volunteers harvested fresh corn from the fields. The corn sales raised $3000.00 for the purchase of Chromebooks and software for the students.
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Kupuna to Keiki Voyaging Together
April 2017 Coinciding with the homecoming of Hōkūleʻa, this community project navigated from Lihue to Waimea to bridge kupuna with keiki. Together, they learned about Polynesian navigation and Mālama Honua as they prepared model canoes to be handed out during the historic ceremonies on ʻOahu. Partnerships included Hokulea Voyager Steve Soltysik, Regency at Puakea, kupuna at the Waimea Neighborhood Center, and youth from home schools and Island school. Today, the Regency at Puakea Kupuna continue to make the sails for Steve’s classes to the 4th graders at all public schools and more. |
2018
Community Projects 2018
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Keiki Reading Project
April 2018 Children growing up in homes with at least twenty books get three years more schooling than children from bookless homes, independent of their parents’ education, occupation, and class. Evans, M. D., Kelley, J., Sikora, J., & Treiman, D. J. (2010). Reading is the single most important skill to succeed in education! Education is the key to ending poverty! This project collaborated with the community initiative Keiki to Career’s Reading Buddies Program at Kekaha Elementarty. The team created a free event for families at the Waimea Theatre. Families were encouraged to read, watched a Disney Movie, and selected free books to take home. |
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Link Kaua'i
On-going
Mission - To link ‘āina-based projects that preserve, protect and perpetuate Kauaʻi values, creating a legacy of connection to the community. Thus far, the project has brought together over 10 aina-based projects and community leaders to discuss their needs and find pathways for LINK Kauai to best serve this community. This project is ongoing.
Pilina 'Ohana
June 2018
A pilot program for foster families that offers various projects that are both entertaining and educational. The Leadership Kaua'i class of 2018 (LK) in partnership with the Kauai Animal Education Center (KAEC), Kauai Families First Program (KFF), OHS Child Welfare Service (CWS) and Child and Family Services (CFS) is implementing a Family Pilot Program called "Pilina 'Ohana". Specifically focusing on reunification efforts between foster kids and their biological parents and family through working together on a family project that will help build and strengthen family bonds and connections. This Pilot Program ran from March 1, 2018 - May 31, 2018, and continues today.
2019
Community Projects 2019
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Get Uncorked for Leadership Kaua'i
June 2019 After finding their why - to help Leadership Kauai so it can be around for years to come, the goal to create a signature event for LK was set. Each planning phase incorporated the 5 Leadership Practices to stay focused towards completion. The wine-pairing benefit gala hosted over 120 alumni and guests at Gaylord’s at Kilohana Restaurant, featured Hawaii’s sommelier, a live and silent auction to raise funds for adult program. The gala held in April was tremendously successful, and that the team booked the restaurant for a gala next year. The new goal is to perpetuate the signature event so it continues to fundraising ensure diverse leaders are at the table of each cohort. |
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Community AG Centers
June 2019 Create the ability to grow food to increase our resiliency and food sovereignty at a community level; a place to gather and call our own, to learn about each other and reconnect with the land, provides resources to support each other with their own personal challenges, to manage and develop the systematic needs of the community as a whole 6 to ensure a prosperous and hopeful future; a place where leaders become champions for their communities and develop shared solutions applicable across our island. The opportunity is to connect farmers to the markets for distribution through an online Food Hub as a platform of farms organized by Moku where foods can be ordered and sold. |
Building Resilience in the Community and Families
June 2019
Aloha Action Alliance are the three pillars of this team who raised awareness on the need to foster resilience and inner growth for each child, families, and the community on the whole. Supporting the Kauai Resilience Project, they contributed data on after school programs and health data on suicide. This project is ongoing today.
2020
Community Projects 2020
Finlit Kaua'i
June 2020
E Maka'ala Kakou Kaua'i is the name of this project group who created Financial Literacy Kauai (FinLit), a series of
financial education class to help people gain the information and skills necessary to buy a home. As they addressed
Kauai’s affordable housing issue, they identified the need for financial education on home buying preparation and
other basic skills such as budgeting, saving and goal setting. In partnership with financial institutions and
educational agencies, the first class was held on February 20 at KCC. The remaining classes were put on hold as
Covid-19 hit our island. Today, the Financial Literacy Kauai Facebook page continues to provide resources for
financial support.
Eco-Student Guide
June 2020
Calling themselves the Trash Talkers, this passionate group spent hours in discussion on where could they best serve the community. Finally, they found common ground and set out to educate students on the various ways to recycle for sustainability. They published the Eco-Student Guide created to empower students to think global and act local on recycling. This guide is available to schools on Kauai.
Youth Leadership
June 2020
This diverse group developed a leadership program for middle schoolers at Kaniukapono Charter school. The 8-
weeks are steeped in cultural values and practices, infusing the Student Leadership Challenge curriculum into each
program day. Hands-on experiential activities is at the heart of this program. Covid-19 shutdown mid-March
prevented the launch of this project. The team is ready to take it up again once the all clear is given.
June 2020
E Maka'ala Kakou Kaua'i is the name of this project group who created Financial Literacy Kauai (FinLit), a series of
financial education class to help people gain the information and skills necessary to buy a home. As they addressed
Kauai’s affordable housing issue, they identified the need for financial education on home buying preparation and
other basic skills such as budgeting, saving and goal setting. In partnership with financial institutions and
educational agencies, the first class was held on February 20 at KCC. The remaining classes were put on hold as
Covid-19 hit our island. Today, the Financial Literacy Kauai Facebook page continues to provide resources for
financial support.
Eco-Student Guide
June 2020
Calling themselves the Trash Talkers, this passionate group spent hours in discussion on where could they best serve the community. Finally, they found common ground and set out to educate students on the various ways to recycle for sustainability. They published the Eco-Student Guide created to empower students to think global and act local on recycling. This guide is available to schools on Kauai.
Youth Leadership
June 2020
This diverse group developed a leadership program for middle schoolers at Kaniukapono Charter school. The 8-
weeks are steeped in cultural values and practices, infusing the Student Leadership Challenge curriculum into each
program day. Hands-on experiential activities is at the heart of this program. Covid-19 shutdown mid-March
prevented the launch of this project. The team is ready to take it up again once the all clear is given.
2021
Community Projects 2021
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NA MAHI HO’OKO A’E of LK 2021:
June 2021 The Mission: How might we positively support an educational and economic engagement between student and farmer to support Kauai’s agriculture?Working with the farmers of Iwi Kua, a partnership program that specializes in a self-sustaining agricultural program, these leaders fostered the |
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relationship between farmers and Waimea High School students to learn how to farm, grow and supply food for school meals. Action steps included identifying areas of need, strategic plan for R&D, marketing, community and business engagement to support the farm to school partnership. The leaders are actively supporting this project today.
KOKUA KITS KAUAʻI:
June 2021
An educational project with a Mission: To create a series of activity kits to connect Kaua‘i Youth and ‘Ohana to the ‘aina and instilling a sense of Well Being and Kuleana. The team created the DOE ʻOhana Engagement Kits curriculum to roll out to grades 2, 4, 8, 10 & 12. Each grade level dives into a deep connection with a Hawaiian value, a native plant, cultural activity, and honors a cultural site with a special kupuna who engages with the students. These leaders are committed to see this project through over the next few years.
June 2021
An educational project with a Mission: To create a series of activity kits to connect Kaua‘i Youth and ‘Ohana to the ‘aina and instilling a sense of Well Being and Kuleana. The team created the DOE ʻOhana Engagement Kits curriculum to roll out to grades 2, 4, 8, 10 & 12. Each grade level dives into a deep connection with a Hawaiian value, a native plant, cultural activity, and honors a cultural site with a special kupuna who engages with the students. These leaders are committed to see this project through over the next few years.
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CONNECTING THOSE IN NEED with mental health & substance abuse services:
June 2021
This group assessed this situation and personally understood the complexity in finding and accessing mental health or substance abuse treatment on Kauai. They identified the target population as those in need of treatment or friends/family members of those in need. Creating a resource website easier access to important services is their solution for a broader reach of people and assistance providers. This immense undertaking is still in the process and these leaders are committed to seeing this website come to fruition.
June 2021
This group assessed this situation and personally understood the complexity in finding and accessing mental health or substance abuse treatment on Kauai. They identified the target population as those in need of treatment or friends/family members of those in need. Creating a resource website easier access to important services is their solution for a broader reach of people and assistance providers. This immense undertaking is still in the process and these leaders are committed to seeing this website come to fruition.
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2022
Community Projects 2022
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Envisioning Kaua`iʻs Sustainable Future LK 2022:
On (Previous event) April 27, 2022 from 3:30pm-5:30pm at the KCC Fine Arts Auditorium there was a talk story with ʻāina-based organizations creating economic diversity through social impact work. 
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We facilitated an afternoon discussion on cultivating Kaua`i's future in pursuit of island innovation and sustainability through our food systems. This conversation was the beginning of a greater one on how KCC can create curriculum to support ʻāina-based organizations creating economic diversity through social impact work on Kaua'i. This was a Zero-Waste event. Mahalo to Jesse from Zero Waste Kaua'i for bringing compost bins. All food, plates, cutlery, cups and napkins were composted.
Closing the Gap:
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Courses at KCC that can support these organizations:
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Kamalani All Inclusive Playground Fundraising
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Leadership Kaua‘i’s class of 2022 supported the development of a project rooted in the community, initiated by the parents of children in search of inclusion and representation of all abilities, and enacted by a government willing to listen. Inspired Play LLC contracts the $400,000 project allocated from the General Fund, Capital Improvements Projects Fund, and the Līhu‘e District Special Trust Fund for Parks & Playgrounds Fund.
Leadership Kaua‘i’s class of 2022 are seeking funds to support the additional and collateral costs that incurred after the initial bid in order to complete and ensure that the park is properly maintained. |
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Recycling and Waste Diversion
2023
Community Projects 2023
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Landlord Summit 2023:
Leadership Kaua’i Class of 2023’s Housing & Homelessness subgroup recognizes the current Kaua’i housing crisis. By organizing the 2023 Landlord Summit, LK 2023 provides a one-day conference for landlords, realtors and property managers, informing and connecting them with resources to incentivize renting to voucher holders, homeless and low-income tenants. 
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Get Learning with ʻLK Edʻ:
Inspired to make change happen with our youth in mind, Get Learning with LK Ed tackles everyday skills through short, easy to understand videos. Their mission was to teach future generations in a way that met them where they were at, which we all know is on their phones! Each group member played a key role in creating, editing, writing, and acting in these videos. Find more on our YouTube page.
Inspired to make change happen with our youth in mind, Get Learning with LK Ed tackles everyday skills through short, easy to understand videos. Their mission was to teach future generations in a way that met them where they were at, which we all know is on their phones! Each group member played a key role in creating, editing, writing, and acting in these videos. Find more on our YouTube page.
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Looking Forward...
Leadership Kaua'i will continue to ensure a source of qualified and committed leaders on Kaua'i through effective leadership programs. Over the next 3-years, we intend to expand LK's reach past Kaua'i to the entire state of Hawai'i, nationally, and internationally, while still maintaining the core cultural values of Kaua'i.