About Us

Kuaʻāina literally means back land; the backbone of the land. It refers to the people who are the backbone of the land and actively live the Hawaiian culture to keep the spirit of the land alive.

The name Hoʻokuaʻāina was given to the organization by Kupuna Earl Kawaa. It refers to our dedication to keeping the traditions and values of our kupuna alive by restoring ʻāina back to abundance, building community through the sharing of traditions and passing on ancient knowledge to future generations.

Kuaʻāina literally means back land; the backbone of the land. It refers to the people who are the backbone of the land and actively live the Hawaiian culture to keep the spirit of the land alive.

The name Hoʻokuaʻāina was given to the organization by Kupuna Earl Kawaa. It refers to our dedication to keeping the traditions and values of our kupuna alive by restoring ʻāina back to abundance, building community through the sharing of traditions and passing on ancient knowledge to future generations.

Ho‘okua‘āina is a non-profit nestled in the ahupua'a of Kailua at Kapalai in Maunawili on the island of Oʻahu. It is a manifestation of Dean and Michele Wilhelm’s vision to create a gathering place for people in the community to connect with and care for the ‘āina, perpetuate Hawaiian culture through the cultivation and preparation of kalo, and to be a place that would ultimately bring healing to people, especially at-risk youth. Since 2007, the Wilhelms along with a hui (group) of collaborators and community volunteers have restored 7.6 acres to be abundant and productive. Today the lo’i is an ideal outdoor learning environment for ʻāina-based education and valuable asset to the Windward community as well as a productive farm enterprise. We are literally “rebuilding lives from the ground up” by empowering youth to realize the meaning and purpose of their lives by helping them develop life strategies and skills through the cultivation of kalo and Hawaiian cultural values-based coaching.