I had something scheduled to post, but I came across something more important.
The Aipa Project not only promotes a healthy and active-aloha lifestyle, but it also supports the Hawaiian Community. In my talk at PONO TODAY, I spoke about how if you can grasp the concept of living Aloha and embracing Aloha, then you can make a difference in your life, family, community, and maybe even the world.
As I was making sure my planned post was ready to be published, I took a break and glanced at my Twitter feed to find:
The picture caught my attention which only made me curious to dig a bit deeper to learn more, and I’m glad I did.
Hui O Wa’a Kaulua is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization formed in 1975 on the island of Maui. It’s a group that teaches na keiki (children) and the community about wayfinding and voyaging used by our Hawaiian ancestors. There mission is:
In partnership with other groups, Hui O Wa’a Kaulua is committed to developing and conducting model educational programs using voyaging to excite and challenge students and their communities to learn about, respect, and care for the natural and social environment. It is our vision to have a healthy, productive, safe Hawai’i and planet Earth.
I even watched their video and it really spoke to me.
In any culture, not only Hawaiian, it is important to always look back and to not forget where you came from. Being in touch with my culture keeps me grounded. It reminds me of what’s important in life; family, community, Aloha, and nature. It’s simple but yet forgotten. Coach Tommy Heffernan, UH Manoa Strength and Conditioning Coach, said, “Hawaiians move forward while looking back to their ancestors.”
In the Hawaiian culture, the canoe stands for something way more than just something that floats on the ocean. Kimo Keo Kapahulehua mentioned, “The canoe is a living entity of us (Hawaiians). On the canoe, it is like an island because that’s all we have…Keep in mind that all this physical things we have is nothing if we donʻt have a spiritual connection.”
If you’ve been following my blog, then you know how much I’m all about projects. I didn’t choose the name, The Aipa Project, for nothing.
Hui O Wa’a Kaulua’s big project right now is the completion and launch of the 62-foot voyaging canoe, Mo’okiha o Pi’ilani (Sacred Lizard of Maui), and that’s where The Aipa Project comes in.
I want to share this information with you, Team Kū, to bring awareness of this organization who is making a difference in the community and touching the lives of future generations. They are not asking for much, just your support and your help in spreading their word.
Here’s how you can help
To learn more about the culture they are building and see the impact they have on the community and children you can check out there Facebook, and visit their website.
They are also doing a campaign on Thunderclap where you can easily show and share your support.
Please take your time to share and help Hui O Waʻa Kaulua make a difference.
Mahalo. Aloha. Ahui hou
AIPA