The Top Hawaiian Charities to Support: Making a Difference in the Islands

When I think about giving back, I always want my support to reach organizations that truly help the people and land of Hawaii.

Many charities and nonprofits serve local communities, families, and the environment across the islands.

By supporting top Hawaiian charities, I help improve lives, protect native wildlife, and make a real impact where it matters most.

Some groups help families in need by providing food or scholarships.

Others care for the environment by preserving native plants and wildlife or responding during disasters.

If you want to make a difference in the Hawaiian islands, it helps to know which nonprofits have the biggest impact.

Why Support Hawaiian Charities?

When I donate to local charities in Hawaii, I help create stronger communities.

My support reaches people in need, strengthens neighborhoods, and gives hope to families who may be struggling.

The Importance of Local Giving

Giving locally makes a unique difference.

Hawaii’s charities understand the islands’ special cultures, challenges, and needs.

When I donate to these organizations, my contribution stays in Hawaii.

Many local groups focus on issues like affordable housing, food insecurity, and children’s education.

When I help charities such as the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, my donation supports projects built for our islands and our people.

I feel good knowing my money, whether cash or in-kind gifts, goes directly to programs that improve life for my neighbors.

Helping someone nearby makes every dollar I give feel more meaningful.

Impact on Quality of Life

When I give locally, my support can touch many parts of daily life.

My donations help feed families, provide shelter for the homeless, and offer scholarships to local students.

For example, groups like Help the Homeless Keiki make sure Hawaii’s children receive basic needs like school supplies and food.

Other organizations focus on healthcare, senior support, and environmental conservation.

How Donations Make a Difference

Every type of donation counts, whether it’s cash or in-kind goods.

Charities use these donations to fund programs, support families, and create change in our communities.

Many organizations provide direct aid, such as distributing food or covering emergency costs.

For example, my gift to scholarship funds through the Hawai‘i Community Foundation can help a student attend college.

Donating to groups that address homelessness means families can find shelter and stability.

Even small donations combine with others, making a big impact across Hawaii’s towns and villages.

Every donor, including me, plays a role.

Leading Statewide Organizations to Support

Supporting trusted charities in Hawaii makes a difference in areas like education, health, and community wellbeing.

Each of these organizations offers unique programs, funding opportunities, and ways for me to get involved or donate.

Hawai‘i Community Foundation

The Hawai‘i Community Foundation stands as one of the largest and most respected charitable groups in Hawaii.

This foundation manages over 1,160 funds, including more than 300 scholarships.

In one recent year, the foundation gave more than $100 million in grants to projects across Hawaii.

They aim to build stronger communities by funding programs in health, education, housing, and the environment.

They work with both donors and community groups to solve real problems.

If I want to support a wide mix of causes or set up my own charitable fund, this is a strong place to start.

For more info about their work and impact, I can visit their site or read more about the Hawai‘i Community Foundation.

Aloha United Way

Aloha United Way focuses on local issues that affect people every day.

This group helps families who are struggling with basic needs like food, housing, and healthcare.

They raise money to support many partner nonprofits in Oahu and beyond.

They run special programs for early childhood, financial stability, and housing.

They also offer options for me to give monthly, make one-time gifts, or run a workplace campaign.

Aloha United Way uses donations efficiently, directing funds to high-priority needs across the islands.

When I support them, my gift helps meet urgent needs in my own community.

Harold K. L. Castle Foundation

The Harold K. L. Castle Foundation focuses on Windward Oahu, but its reach extends statewide.

Their biggest focus is on education, especially improving public schools and promoting college access in under-resourced neighborhoods.

They also support programs in marine conservation and community health.

This foundation partners with local schools and nonprofits to create real change.

They provide grants to projects with lasting results.

The foundation’s long history in Hawaii means they know what the community needs.

I can learn more about their impact through regular reports and success stories.

Pauahi Foundation

The Pauahi Foundation provides educational scholarships and opportunities for Native Hawaiian students.

By focusing on education, they help Native Hawaiian youth reach their goals and build brighter futures.

Most of their scholarships support students attending college or trade schools, making education more accessible.

The foundation honors the legacy of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, whose vision was to uplift Native Hawaiians through learning.

They accept donations in many forms, such as scholarships, general funds, or even planned giving.

My contribution can directly help a student and keep Hawaii’s cultural values strong.

Top Maui-Based Charities

Maui has faced wildfires and other challenges, especially around Lahaina.

I’ve picked key local charities working directly with people and animals in need.

Their efforts range from supplying food to helping with emergency relief and rebuilding.

Maui United Way

When I want my donation to make a direct impact, Maui United Way stands out.

This group partners with local nonprofits to help those facing tough times after disasters, like the fires in Lahaina.

Their main focus is on health, education, and financial stability for Maui residents.

They collect funds and quickly send them to programs serving families who lost their homes or jobs.

Maui United Way coordinates volunteers and maximizes the reach of every dollar they receive.

They offer regular updates, so I can see how my help is making a difference for real people.

If I want my money to reach Maui families facing emergencies, this group has a strong track record.

They work closely with other relief groups to stretch resources and avoid waste.

Maui Strong Fund

The Maui Strong Fund started in response to the major wildfires.

When I donate here, my support goes straight to disaster relief and long-term recovery for Maui, especially in Lahaina.

The Hawaii Community Foundation manages this fund and dedicates it to rebuilding homes, supporting families, and restoring local businesses.

They address both the immediate and lasting needs caused by the fires.

That means helping people find shelter, funding mental health care, and helping schools reopen.

They share clear guidelines for how the money is spent, so I can trust my contribution is used wisely.

The Maui Strong Fund brings together local organizations to deliver help right where it’s needed most.

The fund allows me to support Maui’s ongoing recovery while keeping resources in the community.

More details can be found about how this fund works on the Hawaii Community Foundation.

Maui Food Bank

Maui Food Bank makes sure no one in Maui goes hungry, especially after major disasters.

When I give here, I help provide food, water, and basic necessities to local people.

Their team works year-round but steps up in emergencies by sending extra food boxes and essentials to shelters and recovery centers.

For homebound residents or kids out of school, Maui Food Bank offers programs to get food to those who need it most.

They coordinate with local stores and farmers, so donations help fill pantries quickly.

Food insecurity has grown after the Lahaina wildfires, making their work even more vital.

Here’s what they provide:

• Fresh Produce
• Canned Goods
• Infant Formula
• Emergency Food Boxes

Every dollar provides several meals, and they have strong local partnerships to reach struggling families fast.

Maui Humane Society

When animals are in trouble—especially during wildfires or other disasters—the Maui Humane Society steps in.

They rescue pets, provide shelter, and work to reunite families with their animals after emergencies.

Many pets went missing or were displaced during the Lahaina fires, and the Humane Society offered free vet care, shelter, and food.

Their staff and volunteers train for animal search and rescue during crises.

They also find new foster and adoptive homes for animals that can’t return to their original families.

If I want my support to protect Maui’s pets and keep them safe, this charity is always on the front lines.

My donation helps provide medical care, food, and emergency housing for animals.

They share updates online, so I can follow their impact and learn about ways to volunteer in person if I visit Maui.

Find more details about their recent fire response on Hawaii Business.

Charities Focusing on Food and Basic Needs

In Hawaii, some groups work hard to give people access to healthy food, safe shelter, and support services.

These nonprofits help families, seniors, and individuals meet everyday needs and improve their quality of life.

Aloha Harvest

Aloha Harvest tackles food insecurity by rescuing extra food and delivering it for free to those in need.

Every week, this group gathers surplus food from restaurants, grocery stores, and caterers.

Instead of letting good food go to waste, Aloha Harvest gets it straight to local agencies, churches, and shelters.

This system helps families who might not otherwise have enough to eat.

Half of families in Hawaii experience food insecurity, so the work here is important.

By partnering with other social service groups, Aloha Harvest reaches some of the state’s most vulnerable people.

Anyone can learn more, receive help, or volunteer by visiting Aloha Harvest’s website.

Aloha Harvest focuses on tackling hunger due to rising living costs and limited resources.

Their work reduces waste and feeds thousands of people every month.

Food Banks Serving Hawaii

Hawaii’s network of food banks gives local residents a reliable resource during tough times. Facilities such as the Maui Food Bank and church-run programs offer hot meals, groceries, and basic supplies.

Food banks often use central locations so neighbors can pick up what they need or receive meals on-site. For example, the Maui Food Bank gives emergency food to families, seniors, and children.

Community members, grocery stores, and food drives donate most of the supplies. Many locations also provide non-food items like clothing or hygiene products.

Pantries and food banks make sure people have access to food and basic necessities during financial hardship.

Organizations Supporting Shelter and Housing

Homelessness affects many people in Hawaii, and several organizations step in to help. The Salvation Army is one of the main groups providing both short-term and long-term assistance.

They serve hot meals, give out food bags, and distribute clothing. When possible, they connect people with shelters or temporary housing.

The Salvation Army also offers health and counseling services for issues like substance abuse. Many families who lose their homes turn to the Salvation Army in Hawaii for support.

Catholic Charities Hawai‘i helps people without stable housing by offering direct aid and organizing shelters for individuals and families. These groups work to improve safety, health, and housing for those at risk or experiencing homelessness.

Organizations Supporting Families and Vulnerable Populations

Families in Hawaii face challenges like homelessness and disabilities. Several groups provide food, shelter, job support, and specialized care for those most in need.

Institute for Human Services

The Institute for Human Services (IHS) fights homelessness in Hawaii. IHS gives emergency shelter, meals, and medical care to people living without homes.

They also run programs that help people find work, access counseling, and move into permanent housing. IHS serves men, women, children, and families.

Their staff works one-on-one with clients to create plans for success. This personal approach helps people move from crisis to stability.

IHS offers daily meals, hygiene services, health care, and connections to other support. By partnering with the community, IHS helps families avoid long-term homelessness.

Hope Services

Hope Services, based on the Big Island, helps people facing homelessness. They run emergency shelters, affordable housing, and outreach programs.

Their work is especially important during natural disasters when families may lose their homes. Hope Services offers shelter, job coaching, and financial education.

They support individuals, families, and seniors. Case managers help clients set goals and track progress.

Hope Services works with local schools, hospitals, and churches. This network ensures families have food, health care, and other basics for a fresh start.

Imua Family Services

Imua Family Services supports children with disabilities and developmental delays. They serve families on Maui, Molokai, and Lanai.

Services start at birth and continue through early childhood. Imua provides speech therapy, physical therapy, and parent support.

Imua creates customized plans for each child to help them succeed in school and daily life. Their team includes specialists who understand complex needs.

Imua also runs free family events and parent training sessions. These programs offer support, information, and connections for families.

Youth and Education-Focused Nonprofits

Many kids and teens in Hawaii rely on local nonprofits for mentorship, learning, and scholarships. Youth centers and after-school programs help students pursue their college dreams.

YMCA of Honolulu

The YMCA of Honolulu offers programs for young people and families. They focus on health, teamwork, and life skills.

Kids can join after-school programs, summer camps, and youth sports. These activities build confidence and friendships.

The YMCA provides academic support for students who need extra help. Kids have a safe place to do homework and find caring adults to talk to.

The YMCA also teaches water safety, which is important in Hawaii. Families can join membership programs, and some fees depend on income.

Scholarships are available to make activities more affordable. The Y supports all ages, but their work with young people is especially valuable.

Chaminade University Initiatives

Chaminade University leads projects that support youth and education, especially for first-generation college students. Their service-learning programs encourage students to help their communities.

The university runs outreach and mentorship programs for local high schoolers. Students can join career exploration and college prep workshops.

These programs show teens different paths for their futures, especially in science, technology, and health. Chaminade partners with organizations like the Alaka‘ina Foundation.

Through these partnerships, more students access educational resources. Teamwork between higher education and community groups opens up new opportunities.

Scholarship and Mentorship Programs

Scholarships and mentorship programs help many students in Hawaii. The Hawai’i Community Foundation manages over 300 scholarship funds each year.

The Alaka‘ina Foundation runs the Digital Bus Program, bringing a mobile classroom to rural and Native Hawaiian youth. This program makes science and technology hands-on and fun.

Mentorship programs offer advice, workshops, and support from caring adults. They provide internships, job shadowing, and leadership opportunities.

These programs help young people feel confident about their futures in Hawaii.

Native Hawaiian Causes and Cultural Preservation

Preserving Native Hawaiian culture and supporting health-focused charities keeps traditions strong and improves lives. Many local nonprofits lead cultural programs and healing services across Hawai‘i.

Native Hawaiian Organization Contributions

Groups like the Kalihi Palama Hawaiian Civic Club work to protect Hawaiian culture, language, and history. They support Native Hawaiian rights and offer programs for well-being, education, and housing.

Nonprofits such as Ka Aina Momona and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs organize workshops, language classes, arts events, and land stewardship activities. These efforts help the next generation stay connected with their roots.

ALU LIKE, Inc. partners with others to boost economic growth and social programs. Supporting these Native Hawaiian nonprofits helps protect cultural identity and foster leadership.

Supporting Native Hawaiian Healing

Healing is a vital part of Native Hawaiian life. Many Hawai‘i nonprofits blend traditional Hawaiian healing with modern care.

Some programs offer la‘au lapa‘au (herbal medicine), lomilomi massage, and classes on spiritual and emotional health. These services often work alongside medical support.

Charities empower local healers and encourage cultural practices. Projects funded by Native Hawaiian Philanthropy and similar groups help people recover, stay healthy, and feel a sense of belonging.

Supporting organizations that respect tradition helps keep Hawaiian healing wisdom alive.

Environment and Conservation Charities

Programs that protect Hawaii’s rare plants, restore native habitats, and promote clean farming help keep the islands’ natural beauty and resources healthy for future generations.

National Tropical Botanical Garden

The National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) cares for some of the world’s rarest tropical plants. They run several gardens in Hawaii, including Limahuli and Allerton Gardens on Kauai.

NTBG staff use science and native knowledge to save endangered plants and restore forests. They also offer youth programs and community tours to teach people about native plants.

NTBG’s seed bank and research center collect, store, and study seeds from hundreds of native species. This work helps protect plants from extinction.

NTBG activities:

• Save critically endangered plants
• Restore native Hawaiian ecosystems
• Educate kids and adults through workshops and garden walks

You can learn more or plan a visit through their official website.

Sustainable Farming Projects

Sustainable farming projects in Hawaii help communities grow healthy food while protecting the environment. Many groups teach natural farming, support local farmers, and promote composting, water conservation, and planting native crops.

Some nonprofits offer training in organic farming or help families start backyard gardens. They often partner with schools to teach students how to grow fruits and vegetables.

Sustainable farms use less water and fewer chemicals, leading to cleaner streams, healthier soil, and more native plants and animals.

Focus areas for sustainable farming in Hawaii:

• Teaching low-impact farming skills
• Supporting local food networks
• Restoring traditional Hawaiian agricultural systems

Find more organizations at Environment Nonprofits and Charities in Hawaii.

Health, Wellness, and Emotional Support Organizations

Hawaii is home to caring groups that help people stay mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy. Charities offer health services and emotional support with help from dedicated volunteers.

Waikiki Health

Waikiki Health stands out for providing medical, dental, and mental health care to people from all walks of life. They focus on reaching people who may not have easy access to regular doctors, including the homeless, low-income families, and people without insurance.

Their clinics offer free or low-cost screenings, immunizations, and help with prescriptions. I appreciate how they bring services directly to communities using mobile outreach teams.

They connect people with benefits and teach about healthy living. Waikiki Health’s staff and volunteers create a welcoming space for everyone.

They provide counseling, case management, and referrals to specialty care when needed.

Organizations Providing Emotional and Peer Support

Several local organizations offer emotional support and mental health resources. Mental Health America of Hawaii has educated the public, reduced stigma, and helped people with mental health needs for over 75 years.

The National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association focuses on the unique mental health needs of Hawaii’s diverse communities. These organizations give people a place to talk openly and find peer support in group settings.

Trained volunteers lead many programs, such as crisis hotlines and support groups. They teach families and individuals how to support loved ones and care for their own emotional well-being.

Animal Welfare and Ocean Safety Charities

Many local groups help keep Hawaiʻi’s people, animals, and oceans safe. Organizations focus on inclusive ocean access and animal welfare with real dedication.

Accessurf

Accessurf empowers people with disabilities to enjoy the ocean. They organize regular beach and surf events, making sure adaptive equipment and volunteers are available.

Trained helpers support participants in and out of the water, so everyone feels safe while having fun. They build confidence and physical well-being for both participants and their families.

Accessurf’s events are free and open to anyone with a physical or cognitive challenge. These programs help break down barriers and show how a strong community creates change with compassion and teamwork.

Lifeguard Support Organizations

Supporting lifeguards in Hawaiʻi means investing in public safety and ocean education. Many groups raise funds to provide lifeguards with better first aid kits, rescue gear, and training.

Workshops and educational programs teach locals and visitors about strong currents, rip tides, and safe swimming spots. Some organizations partner with county lifeguards to run public awareness campaigns and safety signage on busy beaches.

Maui’s lifeguards face unique challenges from changing tides and increased tourism. Groups that support their well-being help reduce accidents and save lives every day.

Community Arts and Enrichment Initiatives

Hawaii’s creative side has a real impact. Organizations nurture local artists, protect culture, and provide creative outlets for people of all ages.

Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art brings culture and creativity together in Hawaii. It offers art classes, workshops, and exhibitions featuring local and international artists.

Families and students can take part in hands-on art making, which fosters a love for creativity early on. The museum also runs outreach programs that bring art education to schools.

The galleries highlight Hawaii’s diverse communities. By displaying Hawaiian art next to works from around the world, the museum supports dialogue and understanding.

Donating or becoming a member supports programs that keep art accessible for everyone.

Community-Based Arts Programs

Across the islands, many nonprofits support community-based arts and enrichment. Groups like the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts fund projects, exhibitions, and education programs statewide.

Programs such as the Hilo Education Arts Repertory Theatre Company’s summer camps and the Donkey Mill Art Center’s exhibitions bring performing and visual arts into communities, often at little or no cost.

These initiatives provide safe, inspiring spaces for youth and families. Several organizations also work to increase access to cultural learning resources and STEAM education, especially in underserved areas.

Nonprofits like the Community Enrichment Project of Hawaii use evidence-based approaches to foster enrichment, equity, and resilience.

Here’s a quick look at key community arts groups:

How to Get Involved: Donations, Volunteering, and Partnerships

Supporting Hawaiian charities can make a real difference. Whether I give money, time, or work with others, there are many ways to help.

Ways to Donate

I can donate to Hawaiian nonprofits with a one-time online gift or recurring monthly donations. Both help charities plan for future programs.

Some groups accept in-kind donations like food, clothing, and school supplies. Donating locally makes a big impact because the money goes straight to local programs and services.

Many nonprofits offer online giving tools and accept donations through apps or mobile payments. Sometimes, employers match donations, doubling the gift.

Fundraisers are another way to give while connecting with the cause. I can attend events, join charity auctions, or support campaigns on social media.

Giving stocks, mutual funds, or leaving a planned gift in my will are also options. All these choices support programs, supplies, and outreach.

Giving locally matters, as it allows me to see the impact my donation has in the community.

Volunteering and Volunteer Hours

If I can’t give money, I can give my time. Hawaiian nonprofits need volunteers for serving meals, helping at events, or tutoring keiki (children).

Some groups track volunteer hours and offer certificates for service. Many organizations have short-term and long-term volunteer options.

I can join as an individual or bring friends, family, or coworkers for group service days. Skills like teaching, organizing, or speaking Hawaiian are helpful.

Some charities offer virtual volunteering. I can help with outreach, translation, or online tutoring from home.

Every hour given helps charities fill gaps and build trust with the community. For more advice on volunteering, this guide provides helpful information.

Building Lasting Partnerships

Working together helps both businesses and nonprofits do more good. Companies can help by sharing supplies, professional skills, or time.

Some businesses join forces with nonprofits for special projects, workplace volunteering, and events. Partnerships create bigger impact, since companies can offer money, marketing, or technical help.

This could mean organizing a food drive, leading a training session, or working on community improvement projects. Nonprofits need experts in law, accounting, marketing, or translation.

Businesses or groups can reach out to Hawaiian nonprofits to discuss shared goals and resources. Real partnerships last longer than one-time help and involve planning events together.

Businesses interested in getting started can explore concrete ways to support nonprofits.

Oversight, Transparency, and Effective Giving

When I donate to a charity, I want my money to be used wisely. Good charities in Hawaii follow strict guidelines so funds help people and projects that matter.

Charity Governance

Strong governance is the backbone of any good nonprofit. Board members, directors, and managers follow high standards for honesty and service.

They meet often to review spending, set goals, and follow the rules. Many reliable Hawaiian nonprofits earn high ratings for transparency and financial health.

Organizations with a four-star rating on Charity Navigator show excellent oversight and accountability. You can review Hawaii’s best-run charities through resources like Hawaii Business Magazine’s charity rankings.

I look for published financial statements, clear mission statements, and strong public reporting. Good governance protects against fraud and misuse of funds.

Ensuring Impactful Giving

Making a difference starts with smart giving. I check how much of each dollar goes to the cause, not just staff or marketing.

Some of Hawaii’s top charities, like the Hawaii Foodbank and the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust, use funds efficiently for direct support. Websites like Charity Navigator and Give.org help me review impact.

I look for groups that publish annual reports and list their main programs. Real stories and facts about their work help me decide where to give.

A few quick ways I assess effective giving:

• Check for clear goals and results
• View yearly financial audits and performance ratings
• Read up on recent grant awards and project updates

Grant-Making and Support

Many nonprofits in Hawaii run their own programs and also give grants to others. The Hawai‘i Community Foundation oversees more than a thousand different funds and grants.

They give millions of dollars each year to local projects, scholarships, and community support. I find it helpful to see which groups focus on grant-making because these organizations can respond quickly to urgent needs.

The way organizations select and monitor grant recipients shows their values and commitment to making an impact. Clear guidelines and regular follow-ups show strong support systems.