RES 334 Draft 01 2024-2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Project Information * 47. Project Title EXHIBIT A 2025 Hala Festival 48. Project Start Date 09/20/2025 49. Project End Date 09/20/2025 50. Please select all areas of Hawai'i Island where the project will be administered, delivered, and implemented. Puna 51. Please select the district of the Council Member from which you would like to apply for Contingency Relief Funds. Council District 4 * 52. In 2,000 characters or less, describe the project. The Hala Festival is a free,'ohana-friendly gathering that celebrates hala, a plant of deep cultural and ecological importance in Hawaii. Hosted by the Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC) in partnership with Pohaku Pelemaka, the festival will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Maku'u Market in Puna. Through weaving and planting workshops, live music, hula, and educational exhibits, the event connects participants to place, honors traditional practices, and encourages the protection of hala for future generations. Puna is known for its strong traditions of lauhala weaving, and the festival uplifts these skills and practitioners while creating new opportunities for learning and cultural exchange. Pandanus trees historically protected large stretches of the Hawaiian coastline, helping to reduce storm surge flooding and erosion. Hala is highly resilient to salt and wind, making it an important species for protecting coastal areas. With growing development in Puna and the presence of the coconut rhinoceros beetle on the west side of the island, caring for hala is critical. Last year's first annual festival drew nearly 1,000 attendees, reflecting strong community interest in both culture and conservation. With expanded outreach and promotion, we anticipate 1,200 participants this year. The festival builds and strengthens bonds across generations and organizations, which in turn improves the ability to face invasive species, natural disasters, and other challenges that impact our communities. By bringing people together in celebration of hala, the festival deepens cultural connections, highlights ecological benefits, and fosters resilience rooted in both'aina and community. * 53. 5O1(c)(3) Mission Statement The mission of Big Island RC&D Council is to assist the people of the Big Island in achieving sustainable development while caring for, and appreciating their natural environment; to ensure broadened economic opportunities, enriched communities, and better lives. The vision is to conserve, enhance, and promote the economic, cultural, and natural environment of Hawai'i. * 54. In 1,000 characters or less, explain how the 501(c)(3) is connected to the project. Big Island RC&D provides the nonprofit infrastructure for BIISC, serving as our fiscal sponsor and administering the grants that make projects like the Hala Festival possible. This partnership allows BIISC to carry out invasive species management and community engagement work without the administrative burden of operating as a standalone nonprofit. RC&D's support ensures that BIISC can remain focused on protecting Hawaii Island's natural and cultural resources while also delivering community -centered events such as the Hala Festival. * SS. Please upload a completed CRF Grant Budget Form. Hala Festival - Dt. 4.xlsx Public Purpose of Requested Funds Per §2-138 of the Hawaii County Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended), the County may grant an award only if the proposed program or service provides direct public benefits and fulfills a public purpose within the County.