Hawaii Community Service
Putney Student Travel
 

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 re-introduce native plant species while enjoying the spectacular beauty of the island and learning about local ecology. Through hands-on activities with individuals and community groups committed to preserving Hawaii’s traditional culture, students learn about the islands’ rich heritage. 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.