Wednesday, September 16, 2026 79° Today’s Paper
By Victoria Budiono
Today
COURTESY KAHAKUKAHI OCEAN ACADEMY
Kahakukahi Ocean Academy, a free ocean-based education program for West Maui youth, is seeking $18,000 to repair damage from hurricanes Lala and Lowell to the nonprofit’s classrooms, shown here, its solar system and an outrigger canoe.
Kahakukahi Ocean Academy, a free ocean-based education program for West Maui youth, is seeking $18,000 to repair damage from hurricanes Lala and Lowell before fall school groups arrive.
The storms damaged the nonprofit’s classrooms, solar system and waa, or outrigger canoe, putting its programming at risk at its West Maui facility.
KOA initially estimated it would need $30,000 for repairs. But two anonymous donors recently provided 15 solar panels and a four-person waa, reducing the organization’s remaining fundraising goal to $18,000.
The money will be used to repair the damaged waa, restore classroom doors and flooring, and install the donated solar panels, according to the organization.
KOA has provided free ocean-based programming to Lahaina’s children since the 2023 wildfires, using ocean activities and mentorship to help youth reconnect with the ocean and their community while coping the aftermath of the disaster.
The organization said losing its space would further limit free resources available to West Maui families as the community continues to recover from the fires.
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“We will continue showing up. We’re pivoting programs, honoring our commitments to schools and families, and doing everything we can to keep our keiki connected while we rebuild,” Founder and Executive Director of Kahakukahi Ocean Academy Zane Schweitzer said. “But this time, we’re also humbly asking for kokua from those who believe in this work.”
KOA was founded in 2000 and provides ocean education, mentorship and environmental stewardship programs for West Maui youth. Its programs include hands-on ocean learning, the Riding the Waves of Life mentorship program, and internships and scholarships for youth interested in careers as ocean guardians.
The organization is accepting one-time and recurring donations through its website — kahakukahi.org/donate. Donations also can be mailed to Kahakukahi Ocean Academy at 657 Kai Hele Ku St., Lahaina, HI 96761.
See more:Hurricane SeasonMaui






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