About Us

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Founded in 1994, Hana Laulima 

Lāhui O Kaʻū began with a handful of Hawaiians and a big dream to create the Kaʻū Hawaiian Cultural enter (KHCC). 

Recognizing the value of such a project, the DBEDT awarded two grants to Hana Laulima to assist in the planning of the KHCC 

project at that time. Due to circumstances beyond the group's control, work on the 

KHCC halted. However, the current board is using the KHCC architectural plans, drawings and detailed plans created to 

revive the project and bring it to fruition.

 The mission of Hana Laulima is to support the development of a new economic base for the District of Ka’u that will enhance economic growth, advance a secure financial future for the community and the children of Ka’u while preserving the people of Ka’u’s cultural heritage and love for the ʻāina (land). Ka’u continues its proud tradition of being community-sufficient. Unlike self-sufficiency, Ka’u believes in the prosperity of the collective based on sustainable economic and community development. The people of Ka’u don’t want anything more than what the ʻāina provided through their hard work and ingenuity.

Hana Laulima Lahui O Ka’u (Hana Laulima) believes in people helping people help themselves. The people of Ka’u have a long tradition of working hard; what they need is opportunity. Through the years, Hana Laulima has provided community-based culture-based summer programs for youth. These programs have connected youth with their culture and attached them to mentors who reside in their community.