Malama Mahaulepu Organization
Malama Mahaulepu is a grassroots group – a 501 [c][3] non-profit organization and largely volunteer. We are a demographically, ethnically and professionally diverse organization, including born here and long-time Kauaians, new and part-time residents, visitors, full-time workers, retirees – all caring people. We are connected by a common love for the magic of Mahaulepu and a shared understanding that some places need to be set aside as sacred, allowed to be wild, held for all future generations.
Since the early 1970’s, Kauai residents, especially those from the Koloa region, have opposed development proposals for Mahaulepu. Malama Mahaulepu is the third community group organized to preserve this place.
Some of our participants were leaders of past groups. However, this current effort, begun in 2000, differs from earlier ones in the following ways:
- Malama Mahaulepu is proactive organizing before active development proposals are submitted to governmental agencies.
- We have re-framed the community vision from defense of a coastal strip to conservation and restoration of as much as possible of the entire watershed. The legacy of Kipu Kai, the adjacent watershed that is deeded to the State of Hawaii in the future, inspires this dream of an expansive regional preserve.
We became a 501 [c][3] non-profit in 2002. A nine-member board of directors and a participatory steering committee, to which everyone is welcome, guide us. To ensure community involvement, Malama Mahaulepu is willing to play a management role in the long-term stewardship of Mahaulepu.
Malama Mahaulepu advocates for collaborative planning to seek options for the future of Mahaulepu, recognizing that successful land preservation frequently occurs through private, public and governmental partnerships. We welcome the involvement and support of individuals, organizations and businesses.
Malama Mahaulepu
Board of Directors 2016
Suzanne Kashiwaeda, President
Napua Wong Romo, Vice President
Jeri di Pietro, Secretary
Marty Kuala, Treasurer
David DeZerega
Margery Freeman
Yojana Grace
Beryl Blaich
Kalani Kumai KaMaka `O Na Ali`i Hanohano