The Power of Youth

Molokai team works to restore native habitats.   

Hawaii Youth Conservation Corps Press Release

Molokai youth participating in the Hawaii Youth Conservation Corps internship program completed a work project at Pu`u Hoku Ranch last week. First row, left to right: DJ Kaai, Keaka Kaiama, Kailana Ritte-Camara and Ray Brito. Second row: CJ Kaiaama, Kaipo Dudoit, Keani Acasio, Kuuipo Lenwai, Falon Will-Staudenraus and Kaulana Buchanan.  

Molokai youth were given the chance to work in the Hawaii Youth Conservation Corps this summer. As interns, they not only serve their community by restoring native habitats, they also earn three University of Hawaii college credits while doing so. This month, the Molokai group spent their time at Mo`omomi, Kamakou, Kaho`olawe and Pu`u Hoku Ranch. Throughout each project, the team furthered their education on native plants and invasive species, completing papers and presentations on topics they studied throughout the program.

“I think any time you get young people involved and teach them something about the place they live, it has very lasting effects,” said Brittney Orton at the Hawaii Youth Conservation Corps. “They can now take the knowledge and skills they have gained through this program and apply it to their lives.”