There is never a shortage of fun activities for visitors here on Maui, but if you’d like to spend a little of your time here malama i ka ‘aina (caring for the land) there are a few great nonprofit organizations which meet regularly to pick up trash, plant native trees, and remove invasive species all over the island.
You can help restore an ancient Hawaiian fishing village to it’s pre-contact state. Contact Maui Cultural Lands, Inc., a land trust dedicated to conserving Hawaiian culture, history, ecology. A group of volunteers meet every Saturday to work in Honokowai Valley. This Hawaiian cultural site is not open to the public, so volunteering is the only way most people ever get to see this valley’s historic treasures.
Maui Coastal Land Trust is always looking for more volunteers. They head out to the Waihe’e Refuge every Friday from 8am to noon. Volunteers help remove invasive plants and collect trash to help restore the ancient fishpond to a more pristine wild state. Call their office, 808-244-5263, for directions.
Hoaloha ‘aina, aka South Maui Volunteers, is a group dedicated to improving and maintaining the beaches of Kihei and Wailea. Groups meet at various locations on Monday morning at 7:30am to remove invasive plants and pick up trash. Call 808-249-8811 ext. 1 for more information.
O’o Farms in Kula’s Waipoli Rainforest welcomes volunteers every Wednesday at 9am to assist with chores on their 8.5 acres of organic crops. The farm provides gloves, tools, and fantastic bi-coastal views. Call 808-249-8811 ext. 1 for more information and driving directions.
All of these programs ask that volunteers wear closed toe shoes, sunscreen, and recommend a hat. Please bring plenty of water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized for the duration of the meeting.
Mahalo, and Happy Holidays to all of our visitors, especially those that choose to malama i ka ‘aina.
