Executive Summary

The vision of Malama Aina Foundation (MAF), Ka Hopena o Ka Ike Kupuna (A sustainable community built upon the innovations of the past), is achieved through the integration of traditional Hawaiian culture with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning. Since 1998, we have inspired academic and personal success through culture-based education and enhanced cultural identity. We focus on rural and remote communities (primarily Hilo, Kohala and Waianae) that lack access to quality educational programming, resulting in negative social determinants of health. Our team has deep connections to those communities, giving us insights to the needs, and relationships with community elders and gatekeepers. We conduct programming in three middle schools offering students hands-on learning experiences in-class, after school, and during intersessions and summer break. MAF installs self-sustaining fruit/vegetable boxes in schools and community centers to promote agricultural education and healthier eating habits to combat the high prevalence of diabetes among Native Hawaiians. We give our youth the opportunity to understand their role in environmental stewardship. Trauma-informed care training is offered to parents and teachers to educate them on the importance of protective factors and empower them to address students' obstacles, foster safety, and establish connections. This will ultimately build resilience and break the cycle of intergenerational trauma. Our community driven approach results in substantive improvements in well-being and empowers individuals to overcome inequities. Our deep community ties, culturally responsive leadership, and impactful programs create a sustainable, thriving community where every individual can succeed.

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