Skip to main content

Hui Huliau Community Enrichment | MAKING AN IMPACT

Page 1


AN IMPACT Community Enrichment

MAKING

Creating Opportunities and a Brighter Future for Native Hawaiians

Staying True to Our Mission

Hui Huliau is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) Native Hawaiian Organization (NHO) whose core purpose is to function as a community service organization and address the needs of Native Hawaiians. We have an ongoing commitment to give back to the Native Hawaiian community through our own diverse programs and by supporting other like-minded nonprofits whose missions align with our own.

Our Why

The Waianae Coast on the western side of Oahu has the highest per capita percentage of Native Hawaiians in the world and the highest poverty and unemployment rate in the State of Hawaii. Many families struggle with food insecurity, homelessness, limited access to education and job training, substance abuse, domestic violence, and mental health challenges. We created Hui Huliau to make a lasting difference for the Waianae community.

Contracting With a Purpose

In April 2017, Hui Huliau launched a federal contracting organization to generate revenue to support our nonprofit activities. What began with one small company has grown into multiple businesses that support the defense, intelligence, and diplomatic communities worldwide.

Our Impact

Between April 2017 and December 2025, Hui Huliau generated $70 million in benefits to Native Hawaiians across seven categories tracked by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

• Health, Social and Cultural Support

• Education and Development

• Lands

• Economic and Community Development

• Employment

• Economic Benefits

• Other

$70 million in benefits

Health, Social and Cultural Support

Education and Development

Lands

Economic and Community Development

Employment

Economic Benefits

Other

Building LongTerm Community Capacity

Whether through our own programs or support for other charitable organizations, Hui Huliau focuses on building long-term capacity within the Native Hawaiian community by investing in programs, facilities, and partnerships that expand education, healthcare access, economic opportunity, and community resilience. These efforts create lasting benefits that strengthen families, support future generations, and help communities thrive.

Hui Huliau, A Native Hawaiian Organization

Accountability and Compliance

Hui Huliau maintains rigorous internal controls and documentation systems to ensure compliance with federal nonprofit and federal contracting requirements. As a 501(c)(3) organization and Native Hawaiian Organization participating in the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program, Hui Huliau:

• Complies with strict IRS substantiation, recordkeeping, and disclosure requirements governing charitable organizations

• Operates under formal accounting controls and independent audit

• Pays federal, state, and local taxes through its for-profit companies

• Maintains detailed records of charitable contributions and other benefits provided to Native Hawaiians

• Adheres to federal regulations governing contract performance and subcontracting requirements

• Tracks contract performance, workshare, and subcontracting activity to demonstrate compliance with SBA 8(a) program requirements

• Provides internal legal and management oversight to monitor compliance with nonprofit and federal contracting regulations

• Evaluates complex compliance matters through due diligence, including consultation with outside legal and industry experts and SBA officials

Highlighted Programs

The following initiatives illustrate how Hui Huliau puts its mission into action

Puea Learning Center

Creating education and career training opportunities

Adrian Silva, Founder and Chairman of Hui Huliau, designed and created the Puea Learning Center with the vision to offer no-cost education and career training opportunities to high school students and young adults living along the Waianae Coast. “Puea” is a name once used by locals to refer to the Waianae Valley.

In 2022, Hui Huliau leased 2.5 acres in Waianae, Hawaii and began clearing and preparing the site, installing solar power and water systems, and constructing indoor and outdoor classrooms, offices, restrooms, and training spaces using retrofitted shipping containers. The campus also includes fruit trees and other food production that supports community needs.

Hui Huliau completed construction in early 2024, and the first class began in April 2024. Today, the Puea Learning Center is operated by the Puea Group, an independent nonprofit organization with its own governance and operations. The Puea Group manages the Center and provides no-cost technical training programs through grant funding from Hui Huliau.

Strong demand for the program led to the addition of more classroom space in 2025.

Education and Training Focus

The Puea Learning Center delivers workforce-aligned programs designed to prepare students for entry-level technical roles and continued education pathways. Core offerings include:

• Electronics and Technology Certification Program

• Cybersecurity, AI, and Coding Program

• IT Software Training

| Hui Huliau, A Native Hawaiian Organization

These programs help students obtain industry-recognized certifications and develop practical skills needed for careers in technology and other technical fields.

Participation and Reach

Across all programs, the Puea Learning Center has served and graduated approximately 90 students.

Expanding Participation

While originally designed for high school students and young adults, the Puea Learning Center is also attracting adult learners seeking new skills and career opportunities. The program now serves participants at multiple stages of the workforce, reflecting strong demand for accessible technical training on the Waianae Coast.

20% secured employment independently using skills and credentials earned Workforce Development Outcomes

90 Graduates

80% placed in positions through facilitated matches

Elepaio Social Services

Providing financial support to strengthen food security

Food insecurity is a serious challenge along the Waianae Coast, where over 30% of residents struggle to access reliable food. Oahu imports up to 90% of its food, leaving communities especially vulnerable if shipping disruptions or natural disasters interrupt supply. In isolated areas such as Waianae, a disruption could quickly limit access to food, underscoring the importance of strong local food systems and community-based food distribution. Hui Huliau helps address these issues by donating to Elepaio Social Services.

With a staff of only a few employees, Elepaio provides 7,000 meals a week to families across the Waianae Coast. Established as the nonprofit social services arm of the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, Elepaio connects food access with health, education, and economic stability through programs that provide fresh produce, poi, proteins, and other staple foods for keiki (children), kupuna (elders), and families in need. Elepaio uses multiple channels to distribute food, including direct distributions from its 3,500-square-foot warehouse, community programs, and a weekly farmers market that prioritizes locally grown foods and allows SNAP participants to double the value of their benefits when purchasing fresh produce.

Hui Huliau, A Native Hawaiian Organization

A defining feature of Elepaio’s work is its “Food as Medicine” model, which integrates nutrition directly into healthcare. Physicians at the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center can prescribe healthy food as part of a patient’s treatment plan, with patients receiving vouchers to exchange for fresh produce and other nutritious foods through Elepaio’s programs. The approach helps address diet-related health conditions while strengthening demand for locally grown food. Elepaio’s programs also help stabilize the community during periods of disruption. When the 2025 federal government shutdown interrupted SNAP benefits, Elepaio expanded food distributions to help fill the gap for families suddenly facing reduced access to food assistance. Community leaders are now developing a new food security campus anchored by Elepaio’s programs to expand food bank capacity while adding agricultural production and nutrition education. In the future, Hui Huliau will donate beef raised at Silva Star Ranch to support Elepaio’s food programs, connecting local agricultural production with food security efforts.

7,000 meals a week to families across the Waianae Coast

Silva Star Ranch

Raising locally sourced beef for nonprofit and community food programs

Demand for food assistance on Oahu has increased significantly in recent years, placing growing pressure on food banks and community food programs. Hui Huliau is helping address those needs by restoring 100 acres in Central Oahu’s historic Whitmore area to working pasture for cattle, supporting efforts to expand access to locally raised beef for nonprofit food programs. The project includes clearing trees and brush, installing fencing, and constructing essential ranch facilities including an office, equipment barn, and livestock shelter.

The long-term goal is to raise cattle that will provide fresh beef for nonprofit food programs such as Elepaio Social Services while returning agricultural land to productive use and creating opportunities for workforce development.

Long-term goal is to provide fresh beef for nonprofit food programs

Kapolei Specialty Clinics

Expanding access to specialty healthcare services

West Oahu faces a shortage of specialty healthcare providers, often requiring residents to travel long distances or wait extended periods for diagnosis and treatment. Limited access can delay care for conditions that affect long-term health and quality of life.

In 2025, Hui Huliau partnered with local practitioners to help address this gap by investing in two 2,500-square-foot clinical spaces in DreamHouse Center in Kapolei, Hawaii, creating opportunities for collaboration and economic participation among Native Hawaiian practitioners and businesses. The space is currently undergoing significant renovations to support these specialty services and bring care closer to home for residents of West Oahu, with the clinics expected to open in summer 2026.

One clinic will operate as a sleep study center focused on diagnosing and treating sleep apnea and related sleep disorders. The facility will provide overnight and home sleep testing options, helping reduce wait times for diagnosis while providing patients with the equipment, education, and medical guidance needed to manage their condition.

Health Haven Hawaii will provide comprehensive health and recovery services designed to improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Services will include medical weight management and treatments addressing chronic conditions associated with obesity, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, along with recovery therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen treatment, cryotherapy, red-light and near-infrared therapy, and other advanced treatments that support healing and overall health.

Hui Huliau,

Emergency Communications Initiative

Building a resilient communication network

Our Founder and Chairman, Adrian Silva, visited Maui a few days after the 2023 Maui wildfires and heard firsthand how poor communication made an already devastating situation worse. With cell towers down, residents in Lahaina and across West Maui could not reach family members, neighbors, and first responders during the fires. In some cases, limited communication meant warnings did not reach residents in time. Adrian lived through power and communication outages during Hurricanes Iniki and Iwa and understands how critical communication is in a time of crisis.

He also saw the similarities between West Maui and the Waianae Coast. Both are coastal communities on the dry, leeward side of the island with a single highway in and out. If that highway is compromised, residents are cut off from essential services and from each other, leaving them vulnerable during emergencies such as fires, hurricanes, and tsunamis.

In response, Adrian and a fellow radio operator built an offgrid General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) repeater tower in Waianae to provide a reliable alternate communication method and strengthen emergency preparedness. Because it is off grid, the system continues to operate when power is shut down and other communication systems no longer work.

The initial Waianae tower has been on the air since late 2025. Early tests show it can reach across Oahu and as far as Maui.

Adrian recognized the potential of this solution and is working with community leaders and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) to develop additional communication points in Nanakuli, Maili, Waianae, and Makaha. These locations will form a network that supports residents along the Waianae Coast when traditional systems fail.

Community Grants and Scholarships

Supporting Native Hawaiian communities

Hui Huliau provides grants and scholarships that benefit Native Hawaiians and local communities. Assistance includes funding for college or vocational training, support for families experiencing hardship, and grants for schools and community initiatives. Hui Huliau respects the privacy of recipients and does not publicly disclose the names of individuals who receive this assistance.

Community Partners

Hui Huliau provides vital support to like-minded nonprofit organizations working to lift and empower Native Hawaiian communities.

Ahupua’a O

Homestead supports food production and cultural education in Native Hawaiian homestead communities. Through agriculture and land stewardship training, participants build practical skills and strengthen local food resources.

Alaka’i Sports

Foundation supports youth athletics programs across Hawaii. Through financial assistance and equipment support, the foundation expands access to organized sports and strengthens participation for local families.

Ark of Safety

Christian Church serves local families through worship services, youth programs, and community outreach. Its ministries provide spiritual guidance and direct assistance to residents in need.

DTL Foundation

supports youth athletics, education, and community programs across Hawaii. Through direct financial assistance and sponsorships, the foundation increases participation in sports teams, educational programs, and leadership activities for local families.

Friends

of Iolani Palace preserves Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States and residence of Hawaii’s last monarch. Through restoration and educational programs, the organization safeguards a central site in Native Hawaiian history. Its work ensures the legacy of Hawaii’s kingdom remains visible and understood.

Friends of the Library of Hawaii

raises funds and mobilizes volunteers to support Hawaii’s public libraries. Through book sales and community fundraising, the organization strengthens access to educational resources, literacy programs, and lifelong learning opportunities statewide.

Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii

provides after-school programs, mentorship, and academic support for youth across Hawaii. Through structured activities and leadership development, the organization strengthens educational outcomes and prepares students for college and career pathways.

DreamHouse

Ewa Beach Public Charter School offers a dynamic, student-focused education that supports both academic achievement and character development. Rooted in the Ewa Beach community, the school equips students with the tools to success in school and beyond.

Friends of Waimanalo

provides workforce training in construction, trades, multimedia, and Hawaiian culture for youth and adults. Participants complete hands-on instruction and earn industry certifications that prepare them for employment and higher earning potential.

George Paris Iron Workers Scholarship provides education scholarships for members of the local iron workers union, their families, and future trades workers. Through financial awards, these programs help recipients access college, technical training, or apprenticeships in construction trades. Their support expands career pathways in skilled labor and workforce development.

Hookūpa‘a provides culturally grounded education and mentorship programs for youth in Hawaii. Through leadership training, academic support, and community engagement, participants build practical skills and strengthen connection to Hawaiian values and identity.

Hawaii Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Action

Group

raises awareness and provides education on fetal alcohol spectrum disorders across Hawaii. Through prevention initiatives, training, and community outreach, the organization improves early identification and support for affected children and families.

Hui Aloha Onipa’a

supports Native Hawaiian families through cultural education, youth mentorship, and community service initiatives. By reinforcing Hawaiian values, language, and leadership development, the organization strengthens cultural knowledge and personal responsibility. Its programs prepare youth and families to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Hawaii Journalism Initiative produces in-depth reporting on issues affecting communities across Hawaii. By elevating local voices and increasing access to reliable information, the initiative strengthens public understanding of education, land use, housing, and economic development. Its work helps keep Native Hawaiian communities informed and ensures their voices are heard.

Institution for Native Pacific Education and Culture (INPEACE) delivers early childhood education, workforce development, and entrepreneurship programs for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander families. Through training, certification, and small business support, the organization strengthens educational outcomes and expands economic opportunity statewide.

Hui Huliau, A Native Hawaiian

Hawaiian Entertainment Group produces cultural events and performances that feature Hawaiian music, dance, and local talent. Through live productions and community programming, the organization creates platforms for artists while preserving and promoting Hawaiian cultural expression.

Ho’i Hawaii

provides reentry services for formerly incarcerated individuals returning to Hawaii communities. Through housing support, job readiness training, and case management, the organization reduces recidivism and increases employment outcomes. Its programs strengthen families and improve longterm community safety.

Ho’omana I

Na Po’okela recognizes outstanding Native Hawaiian students, athletes, and community leaders through annual awards and public honors. By formally celebrating achievement in education, leadership, and service, the organization elevates high performance and visible role models within the community.

Ka’ala Farm Inc. provides hands-on cultural and agricultural education for youth and families on the Waianae Coast. Through traditional farming practices, land stewardship, and place-based learning, participants gain practical skills and deeper knowledge of Hawaiian values. Its programs connect education, food production, and cultural preservation in daily practice.

Kina’ole Foundation supports workforce development, education, and community initiatives across Hawaii. Through direct funding of training programs and educational support, the foundation increases job readiness, employment opportunities, and career advancement for Native Hawaiian communities.

Hui Huliau has been a blessing and provided us with the resources needed to prepare for our future.
– Eric Enos, Executive Director of Kā‘ala Farm

Kū Mano I Ke Ala

O Makaweli provides culturally grounded education and mentorship for Native Hawaiian youth. Through academic support, leadership development, and instruction rooted in Hawaiian values, the organization strengthens educational achievement and prepares participants for future opportunities.

Leeward Coast Public Charter School

provides education for students on the Waianae Coast that integrates academics with agriculture, environmental stewardship, and Hawaiian culture. Through hands-on learning and community-based programs, the school strengthens educational outcomes and career pathways.

Leeward

Community College provides associate degrees, workforce training, and transfer pathways for students across Central and West Oahu. Through career and technical education, certification programs, and academic support, the college prepares students for employment and continued study.

Mauka to Makai Foundation delivers youth education programs focused on land conservation and ocean stewardship in Makaha. Through hands-on training in resource management and environmental care, participants gain practical skills and cultural knowledge that prepare them for future education and employment.

Meleku Foundation supports youth programs, scholarships, and community initiatives across Hawaii. Its charitable giving helps local families access education and communitybased programs.

Na Kama Kai provides ocean safety and skills training for youth across Hawaii. Through free, hands-on ocean clinics where participants learn swimming, paddling, and water safety, the organization helps reduce risk and build confidence in the water. Its programs also teach stewardship and cultural knowledge that reinforce respect for Hawaii’s coastal environment.

Leeward Kai Canoe Club

provides outrigger canoe training and ocean safety programs for youth and adults on the Waianae Coast. Rooted in Native Hawaiian paddling traditions, the club strengthens cultural practice while developing discipline, teamwork, and leadership among participants.

Leilehua High School

serves students in Central Oahu with strong academic programs, competitive athletics, and leadership opportunities including Junior ROTC. The school prepares graduates for college, careers, and military service while fostering school pride and community engagement.

Native

Hawaiian Organizations Association

represents and supports Native Hawaiian Organizations engaged in economic development and federal contracting. Through education, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives, the association strengthens compliance, governance, and business performance. Its work advances sustainable economic opportunity for Native Hawaiian communities.

Maui Bronco League

provides structured, competitive youth baseball programs that help young athletes across Maui develop skills, discipline, and sportsmanship. Through volunteer leadership and community support, the league creates positive pathways for growth both on and off the field.

Razorbackz 7G provides youth football training and competitive team play on the Waianae Coast. Through structured practices and league competition, participants build discipline, teamwork, and physical development while gaining access to organized athletics.

Searider Football

Booster

provides financial and volunteer support for the Waianae High School football program, funding equipment, travel, and team needs. Its efforts expand access to athletics while reinforcing accountability, teamwork, and leadership among student-athletes.

Wa’a Loli Mau provides ocean-based programs and cultural mentorship for youth in Hawaii. Through paddling, water safety training, and instruction grounded in Hawaiian values, participants build discipline, confidence, and practical skills in the ocean environment.

Our Lady of Keaau Catholic Church serves families on Hawaii Island through worship services, faith formation, and community outreach. Its ministries provide spiritual guidance and local support to residents in the Keaau community.

University of Hawaii

provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional education across its statewide system of campuses. Through academic programs, research, and workforce training, the university prepares students for careers that strengthen Hawaii’s economy and communities.

Waianae Protestant Church serves families on the Waianae Coast through worship services, youth programs, and community outreach. Its ministries provide spiritual guidance and direct support to residents.

Waianae Economic Development Council provides workforce training, small business support, and community development programs on the Waianae Coast. Through job training, entrepreneurship assistance, and youth initiatives, the council increases employment opportunities and local economic activity.

Waianae Hawaiian Civic Club provides scholarships and cultural programs that support Native Hawaiian students and families on the Waianae Coast. Through investment in education and promotion of Hawaiian language and history, the club reinforces cultural knowledge and prepares emerging leaders.

“Waianae High School Parent-TeacherStudent Association is a volunteer-led organization that enhances student success by supporting academic initiatives, extracurricular programs, and campus resources. Through fundraising and family engagement, the PTSA strengthens communication and helps create a positive learning environment for the Waianae High School community.

The kōkua (support) from Hui Huliau has been immeasurable in advancing our efforts to promote ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language). With their support, we have set a bold vision: that within 50 years, the entire Waiʻanae moku (area) will be speaking our language. Now, just three years into this journey, we are already seeing meaningful progress.

Westside

Striking provides youth athletics training and competitive sports programs on the Waianae Coast. Through coaching, structured practices, and team competition, participants build discipline, accountability, and physical fitness.

Community Engagement Beyond Hawaii

Hui Huliau supports select organizations that serve the broader communities where our employees live and work. Examples include sponsoring Gold Star Families to attend the annual Army Ball, and the Armed Services YMCA Hawaii annual “Celebrating the Military Family Breakfast,” recognizing the service and sacrifice of those at home supporting our service members.

David McComas, Hui Huliau’s Chief Operating Officer and Command Sergeant Major (Retired), and his wife Annette at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Suncoast Chapter’s 250th Army Birthday Ball.

Huliau was proud to sponsor a table at the Armed Services YMCA Hawaii’s annual Celebrating the Military Family Breakfast.

Hui

Fruits and vegetables grown at the Puea Learning Center are donated to local food programs.

Company leaders took part in hands-on cultural learning to deepen their understanding of the community and strengthen how we deliver our mission, including a special dinner event, A Culinary Journey Through Hawaii’s Cultural Heritage, where each course highlights the traditions and influences that shape the islands.

| Hui Huliau, A Native Hawaiian Organization

enjoyed sponsoring the

Adrian Silva continues his tradition of cooking Thanksgiving turkeys in an imu (underground oven), a practice rooted in Hawaiian culture. As an expression of aloha, he shares the turkeys with others in the community. It helps to have an excavator and strong friends ready to help.

Huli Huliau
Nanakuli Elementary school Song Fest honoring Prince Kūhiō’.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook