Cultivating Community

December 20, 2023

The Hunt Development Group Hawai‘i team gathered at Kalaeloa Heritage Park in October to help water the native plants that grow on acres of park property as part of Hunt’s Community Day. The park, which is cared for by Kalaeloa Heritage and Legacy Foundation (KHLF), is a treasure trove of historical finds dating back to some of the first indigenous people to arrive on our islands and a memorial for a U.S. aircraft downed in World War II.

“When we think about Kalaeloa, it is important that we think about those who came before us as we envision what is to come,” said Steve Colón, President of Hunt Development Group Hawai‘i. “Kalaeloa Heritage Park is an invaluable community partner and helps ensure that our connection to this place and its history is never lost.”

Hunt Development Group Hawai‘i Executive Vice President Paul Kay presented cultural historian and park caretaker Uncle Shad Kane and park volunteers with ho‘okupu (offerings) of shovels, rakes, gloves and watering cans
to thank the park team for its commitment towards perpetuating the history of this area. Guided by Uncle Shad, the Hunt team saw the cultural and historical landscape firsthand, and later helped to nurture the native plants that live and thrive in this area.

Water is precious, especially at the park, where there is no permanent water source. Instead, water is trucked in once a week courtesy of Royal Contracting Company, which is working with Hunt in Kalaeloa.

Park volunteers fill sixteen 200-gallon plastic tanks. That water is enough to sustain
the plants along the trails that wind through the park. To help the plants continue to thrive, Kalaeloa Heritage Park is working with KHLF and Hunt to generate sponsorships and donations to help create a permanent source to provide the park with water.

“We are very grateful for Hunt’s continuous support of our ongoing mission to bring water into the Kalaeloa Heritage
Park,” said Dwight Victor, KHLF President. “They recognize a more permanent solution is needed and have been steadfast in guiding us towards that solution, while making sure our water tanks are filled each week.”

To learn more about Kalaeloa Heritage Park and the Kalaeloa Heritage and Legacy Foundation, as well as volunteer, educational and sponsorship opportunities, please visit khlf.org.