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About Hawaii:
Hawaii is famous for its stunning natural beauty and the warmth and
generosity of its people. This volcanic island chain began forming
70 million years ago, and continues to grow due to the active
volcanoes on the Big Island of
 Hawaii.
In the center of the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii has a unique ecosystem.
Its lush rain forests are home to a wide array of distinct and
specialized wildlife that flourished for millions of years without
threat of disease or predators. It wasn’t until a thousand years ago
that the islands were discovered by the seafaring Polynesians, who
were followed by Europeans in the 18th century. Since then, Hawaii
has sought a harmonious balance between humans and nature,
foreigners and natives.
The Projects:
Postcards of sandy beaches, waving palms, majestic waterfalls, and
gorgeous sunsets fail to show that a number of challenging issues
confront contemporary Oahu, where the program is located. The many
dollars spent by tourists are not evenly distributed throughout the
population. Native Hawaiians and recent immigrants from the Pacific
islands face poverty, poor job opportunities, and limited housing
options. The beauty of the natural environment is threatened by
invasive plants and animals that are crowding out native species.
The rich traditions of Hawaiian culture are in danger of being
forgotten. Putney students address each of these challenges as they
work on a variety of projects during their stay. Helping out at the
local Boys and Girls Club, the Food Bank, or an adult daycare
facility, students have an opportunity to provide useful service
while also getting to know native Hawaiians. Hiking into the back
country, or into marshland, they take shovels in hand to assist with
projects designed to reintroduce native plant species while
enjoying the spectacular beauty of the island and learning about
local ecology. Working with local people to prepare a festival of
Hawaiian culture, they help keep traditions alive. After working on
projects, a beach is always close by for a late afternoon swim, a
surfing lesson, or a volleyball game with new friends.
Weekends:
After each week of work, the entire island is accessible to
participants for exciting adventures and educational excursions.
Students snorkel in Hanauma Bay, visit historic Pearl Harbor and
Honolulu’s Chinatown, kayak off Kailua Beach, swim with sea turtles
at Waimea Bay, learn traditional Hawaiian dances, and take a
surfing lesson. One weekend the group takes a short airplane hop to
the Big Island for three days, enjoying the natural beauty of that
relatively undeveloped island. The group explores the spectacular
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the town of Hilo, gushing
waterfalls, and secluded beaches.
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