From Campers to Changemakers: The Journey of Our Teen Mentorship Program

At Project Hawai’i, Inc., our mission has always been to empower homeless and impoverished children to break the cycle of poverty. Over the years, we’ve watched many of our young campers blossom into confident teens—ready to lead, give back, and dream beyond their circumstances. That's why we created the

Teen Mentorship and Leadership Program: a stepping stone for youth to take the next leap forward in their journey to success.

What began as a summer enrichment camp has evolved into a comprehensive year-round experience, guiding our teens through personal growth, academic achievement, and life preparation.

Building Leaders from the Ground Up

Our Teen Mentorship Program is designed to provide structure, support, and skill-building opportunities for youth who are often the first in their families to reach major academic milestones. These teens face unimaginable obstacles, but with the right tools and encouragement, they are rising above and rewriting their stories.

Through this program, teens participate in:

• Leadership and Self-Discovery Workshops Teens explore their strengths, values, and future goals through guided workshops that help them build self-confidence, communication skills, and a strong sense of identity.

• College and Career Preparation Many of our teens are the first in their families to graduate from high school and attend college. With support from our team, they learn how to apply for financial aid, build resumes, and prepare for college life.

• Service Learning and National Recognition Our teens complete over 200 hours of community service, earning the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award. They also receive six workshop certificates that not only enhance their resumes but often lead to college scholarships.

  
  

  

  
  

More Than Mentoring—It’s a Full Circle Experience

The mentorship doesn’t end with leadership workshops.

Our Residency Program offers teens a unique opportunity to experience independent living in a supportive environment. Here, they learn essential life skills—from budgeting to personal care—while continuing their education.

Our programming also includes:

• Cultural Events that ground them in identity and tradition, building pride and deeper community connections.

• Cooking Classes where teens learn to prepare nutritious meals on a budget—an essential skill for self-sufficiency.

• Hands-on Workshops in entrepreneurship, health, job readiness, and more, helping them explore real-world applications of their skills and passions.

Celebrating Success, One Teen at a Time

Many of our teens come from generations of homelessness and poverty. For them, simply staying in school is a challenge—graduating is a triumph. And yet, our program has helped dozens not only graduate high school as the first in their families, but continue on to college, trade school, and meaningful careers.

Each milestone they reach is a victory not just for them, but for their entire families and future generations. Our teens become role models for their siblings, leaders in their communities, and contributors to a brighter Hawai’i.

Join Us in Building the Next Generation

The impact of our Teen Mentorship Program is proof that with the right guidance, support, and love, anything is possible. These youth are not just surviving—they are thriving. And every donation, volunteer hour, and shared word helps us continue this vital work.

Together, we can build a future where every child—regardless of their background—has the opportunity to succeed, lead, and live with purpose.

Mahalo for believing in our teens. They’re changing the world—one step at a time.

Our Teen proudly celebrating her graduation on the beach where she was raised her entire life... now off to college!!