Makanalani Kids, a non-profit originating in Hawaii, dedicates itself to facilitating cost-free camps to children, especially focusing on those who might otherwise be financially excluded from such opportunities. The organizational ethos is seemingly rooted in offering potentially transformative experiences within a calm and picturesque setting, with a mission outlined as providing these camps, framed by an uplifting environmental backdrop, without financial obligation to youth.
A large portion of the experience occurs on Makanalani Farm on Kauai, which encompasses 130 acres with an additional leased parcel of a hundred acres, crafted to present the attendees with lasting memories, particularly underprivileged children. The farm is more than a venue for exploring nature and interacting with animals; it emerges as a platform aimed at transformation, engaging youth in activities ranging from fruit-picking to exploring nature. The farm is inhabited by various animals, notably Katahdin sheep and dairy cows, and employs sustainable practices.
In the words of a representative from the farm in the video segment hosted by Lyndsey Haraguchi-Nakayama, “Our whole purpose for building was to bring kids on the property and to give them an opportunity to experience 130 acres with animals and being able to pick through, being able to just walk around nature, and also to just have a time out, time to be with friends, time to be with counselors.” Not only does the farm curate experiences with nature, but it also introduces children to a variety of animals. Katahdin sheep, described as being bred to be “Hardy for this kind of climate,” and “hair sheep” with “very mild meat,” coexist with around 20 dairy cows which “need to be milked every single day.”
The existence of mini donkeys on the farm is highlighted, described as a “highlight for the kids” due to being “less intimidating than the larger animals” and possessing an amicable and friendly demeanor. The animal encounters seem to be structured to both enlighten and entertain, providing an informal yet educational overview of farm life and animal care.
Beyond the enchanting surroundings and activities, the underpinnings of Makanalani Kids pivot on what are identified as four crucial pillars: collaboration, formative experiences, place, and familiarity, intending to create a “home” in Makanalani for every attendee. The non-profit is operated on the principle that 100% of donations are channeled directly into maintaining the camp and addressing its operational costs.
Further revealing the pragmatics behind sustaining such a venture, the representative shares, “You cannot really do what we’re doing with just farming. We bring the kids here; they essentially get a free holiday. So we have to support that somehow. We’ve started some small businesses specifically to contribute to the kids’ program here in Makanalani.” This includes varied enterprises such as Jojo shave ice, a motorcycle rental business, and Makanalani Herbal Teas, from which proceeds are directed to finance the children’s programs.
Even with these endeavors to support the non-profit financially, there emanates a commitment to its foundational tenets, perhaps best summarized in the statement: “God has been good to us, and that’s what we like to give forward. We like to bless others and hope that they will continue.” While the future is inherently uncertain, the intention appears clear: to ensure that Makanalani Kids continues to facilitate transformative experiences for youth, indelibly connecting them with the land, the animals, and potentially, a different perspective on life.