Ulu Pono Lahui Foundation Inc.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to reconnect people to their heritage by restoring the land of Waipi'o Valley and reviving traditional Hawaiian farming methods, especially the cultivation of taro. We aim to lower the cost of traditional Hawaiian foods such as poi, ensuring that they are accessible to all, while fostering a deeper appreciation for the values of sustainability and cultural preservation. Through educational initiatives and hands-on farming experiences, we hope to empower local farmers, especially younger generations, to continue these ancestral practices and pass them forward for the future of Hawai'i.

Values Statement

Our values are rooted in the understanding that to heal the land is to heal the people. Our organization is committed to restoring Waipi'o Valley as a sustainable and thriving agricultural hub, where traditional Hawaiian farming practices are honored, and food sovereignty is revitalized for future generations. We stand by the belief that by nurturing the land with respect, we nourish both our bodies and our culture.

Our values include:

1. Environmental Stewardship: We honor the aina (land) by employing sustainable farming practices, such as the restoration of ancient lo'i terraces and 'auwai irrigation systems, to cultivate crops that are in harmony with nature.

2. Cultural Preservation: We are dedicated to ensuring that traditional Hawaiian farming practices are passed down to the next generation, strengthening cultural identity and heritage through education and hands-on experiences.

3. Community Empowerment: We are committed to making healthy, culturally significant foods like poi accessible to the community, and to offering educational resources that empower local farmers and residents to reconnect with the land and their agricultural roots.