Mālama: a film about Environmental Stewardship
In June 2022, the Pulaski Users Group (PUG) and the Flourish Foundation embarked on a collaborative trip to the Garden Isle of Kaua'i. Five alumni from the Compassionate Leaders Program, along with a student from Oahu, and PUG and Flourish staff, spent two weeks exploring the island, deepening their understanding of and appreciation for the cultural practices and significance of the Hawaiian culture and engaging in regenerative tourism. What makes the Hawaiian Islands truly special is the stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and the deeply rooted practice of mālama. Mālama means to take care of, tend, attend, care for, preserve, protect, save, and maintain. The Hawaiian culture exemplifies this practice and the group was fortunate to experience this in a deep and profound way by giving back to the local trails. We want to extend boundless gratitude for Mark Hubbard from the Friends of the Kalalau Trail, Myranda "Wai" Kuapahi at the Koke’e State Park CCC Camp, Kawika Smith, Kekoa Aana, and David Tsuchiya from DLNR, the wonderful people at the Alekoko Fishpond, Ron O’Brian and others from the state, and Uncle Presley Wann of the Hui Maka'ainana o Makana, all of whom opened their hearts and paved the way for us to make this trip a reality! The joy and character of the trip came to life because of the wonderful CLP Alumni: Sebi, Tony, Sage, Kim, Sofia and our wonderful new edition, Skye. Lastly, mahalo no kou lokomaika‘i (thank you for your generosity) to all of the Flourish and PUG donors who continually support our work and missions. To get involved check out the “Na Ala Hele” Trails and Access Program of DLNR Dept. of Forestry, https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/nah/ Special Thanks to: Mark Hubbard – Friends of Kalalau Trail https://www.kauaipath.org/civicrm/eve... Uncle Presley Wann - Hui Makaʻāinana o Makana https://www.huimakaainanaomakana.org/