Mo‘omeheu  Hawai‘i: Hawaiian culture, values and traditions will be woven into all of MLC’s programs:

• Mālama: Principles of sustainability and the message of “mālama” (caring) will be evident in all aspects of MLC’s operations and activities.
• Kuleana: Caring for the natural and cultural resources of Hawai‘i is a privilege and honor for MLC. We will work to instill a sense of shared kuleana (responsibility) within those we serve.
• Lōkahi: Synergy of culture, arts, sciences, environment, business, education, and technology will bring people together and lead to transforming results.
• Kaiāulu: MLC’s programs will be responsive to the needs and goals of the communities we serve.
• Pilina: MLC will be inclusive rather than exclusive. While the target audience will be the youth and school teachers of West O‘ahu, participation is open to the public for people of all ages, encouraging intergenerational learning and the development of reciprocal relationships between people and ‘āina.

Our Approach

Mālama Learning Center pursues its Mission using these strategies:

• ʻĀina Based Education: We design and deliver educational programs that are place-based, hands-on, and have real world connections – weaving science and Hawaiian culture.
• Empower Teachers: We celebrate and support the critical role of teachers and school programs in preparing our youth as stewards of a healthier planet.
• ʻĀina Science: We teach the fundamental science of how our ‘Āina functions. This includes understanding where our fresh water comes from, how healthy soils are key to growing our food, how climate change and invasive species affect the ʻāina, how the health of our lands, waters, wildlife and people are all connected, and much more.
• ʻĀina Skills: We give people the practical skills to heal the lands and waters of Hawaiʻi. We show them how to grow native plants, restore watershed forests and streams, practice regenerative agriculture, work collaboratively, solve problems, communicate effectively, and more.
• ʻĀina Careers: We believe that meaningful learning happens through multiple experiences over time. We work with a wide variety of partners to provide this long-term learning exposure along the school-to-career pathway.
• Learning Networks: We actively connect teachers, organizations, and youth to accelerate learning and increase the scale of impact. We build and support productive networks and partnerships for the long journey toward lasting change. We continuously share our experience and build local capacity to achieve a more caring and sustainable Hawaiʻi.