Kanu Hawai‘i expands annual volunteerism celebration with Volunteer Month 2023

Organized by sustainability group Kanu Hawai‘i, Volunteer Week Hawai‘i expands this year to encompass volunteer opportunities, events and initiatives all April long.

The nonprofit kicks off the month with an online signature drive: “Pledge to Our Keiki.” The month-long celebration of volunteerism includes more than 800 opportunities in the works and 400 events that the public can participate in.

“In order to keep our island home one that can be enjoyed for many generations to come, the time has come to take bold action together,” said Gov. Dr. Josh Green. “One person can make a difference, but thousands can make a bigger one.”

Most events held during Volunteer Month Hawai’i have an environmental and cultural stewardship focus.

On April 21, hundreds of business leaders, dignitaries and government officials are expected to convene in the rotunda at the Hawai‘i State Capitol to kick off Earth Day festivities. This event is open to the public.

“The most important thing that we can do for the planet and place is to make a personal commitment to positive change and then take action to make it so,” says Kanu Hawaii Executive Director Keone Kealoha.

Groups and organizations can go to KanuHawaii.org to register an event or participate in an existing one. The portal will remain open year-round. Businesses are encouraged to encourage employee participation, and to donate in-kind and financially. Opportunities during the week range from park and beach cleanups to food drives to lo‘i and loko i‘a restoration.