David Y. Ige | Many hands help Ka’u Dream to come true

The phrase “Think global, act local” took on new meaning on the island of Hawaii with the launch of Ka’u dream, a community resilience project that is already attracting international attention. The hope is that Ka’u Dream will serve as an example of what can be accomplished in other communities across the state through education and economic development. The project was recently officially launched on the island of Hawai’i, in the presence of the First Lady as Chairman of the Ka’u Dream Advisory Board and several community partners. Partners include Hawai’i Community College, Derek Kurisu of KTA Superstores, Duane Kurisu of aio Foundation and Hawai’i Executive Collaborative, and high school educator Ka’u ʻĀina Akamu and principal Sharon Beck.

Ms. Ige with part of the Ka’u Dream team at the launch of the project.

“Many years ago, I joined the Youth Conservation Corps, where I spent my summer in the Ka’u Forest learning about environmental stewardship and civic responsibility,” Ms. Ige said. “That summer, and Ka’u, hold a special place in my heart.” The Ka’u Global Learning Lab is one of Recipients of the Governor’s Emergency Education Fund (GEER). The program aims to foster a culture of socially responsible entrepreneurs through its school farm program and global agricultural partnerships. Ka’u Dream will also honor the cultural heritage of the region through musical and gastronomic events. “When it comes to a community-led program, it becomes much stronger and more sustainable,” she said. “I see it here in the hearts, minds and commitment of students, teachers and staff.”

Read more in the Capitol Connection December newsletter.

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