One of the greatest gifts we can give our keiki and 'ōpio is a love of literature and lifelong learning. With the revised Pūolo Aloha program, giving couldn’t be easier.
With a new format and way of giving, Pūolo Aloha provides alumni, parents, students and our friends in the community with a great way to give back to communities throughout the state.
“Ke Ali'i Pauahi Foundation believes in leveraging new and diverse resources to support Kamehameha Schools’ educational mission,” said Bran-Dee Torres, the Foundation’s development administrator. “Through programs like Pūolo Aloha, we’re able to accomplish that.”
During the first pilot phase, almost $10,000 was raised from Kamehameha alumni, friends and community members. Through a partnership among Ke Ali'i Pauahi Foundation, Kamehameha Publishing, University of Hawai'i Press and Bishop Museum Press, Hawaiian-focused book bundles were assembled and shipped to 81 Department of Education (DOE) schools and programs on O'ahu, Hawai'i, Maui, Moloka'i, Lāna'i and Kaua'i.
In the program’s second phase, Ke Ali'i Pauahi Foundation and Kamehameha Publishing have come together to make the joy of reading and learning a reality for students. Donors are able to give to the Early Childhood Education and Literacy fund and designate a specific community to support. Proceeds will be set aside to purchase Makana (gift) Cards to Kamehameha Publishing’s online store, www.kamehamehapublishing.org, and your gift will enable a DOE school within the community you choose to purchase much needed books, multi-media materials and other learning tools.
Because of the discount given to educational institutions ranging from pre-kindergarten to grade 12, a donation of $25 would be worth $62.50 in purchases. In addition, Makana Cards do not expire, enabling teachers and students the flexibility to purchase items from Kamehameha Publishing for as long as they have a balance on the card.
Here’s what some grateful school representatives are saying:
“We are truly fortunate to have support for our children so that they can become effective communicators, complex thinkers and community participants in the 21st century.”
– Liela Nitta, Ed.D., Principal, 'Ele'ele School
“Your generosity is another example of how the aloha spirit is alive and well in our community. Our students are taught that one of the greatest experiences in life is to be able to contribute their services back to their community that they reside in whether it be in Lahaina or in the other parts of Hawai‘i or mainland.”
- Michael M. Nakano, Principal, Lahainaluna High School
“In these times of fiscal crisis and stress, it is comforting to know that there is altruism and generosity. I have found the books to be quality works that will enhance our library. I appreciate the lesson tips, the glossaries, and the Hawaiian cultural perspective each book presents. I am sure teachers will find merit in using the volumes, both as a literature resource and a cultural resource.”
- Fred L. Rose, Principal, Kilauea Elementary School
For more on the Pū'olo Aloha Program (click here) and to see how that program benefits the Leeward Coast Charter School Program (click here).