ENVIRONMENTAL PATHWAY
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The Environment Pathway encourages students to explore the challenges confronting Hawai‘i’s unique environment and Ecoculture. Service learners study the interaction between humans, technology, and the natural world. Native Hawaiians and other talented students participate in programs like Mālama I Nā Ahupua‘a (MINA), take responsibility for native plants at arboretums, and work to improve, restore and preserve habitats supporting terrestrial, coral reef, and marine species.​

The following information is subject to change at any time without prior notice. If you encounter inaccurate information, please send an email to [email protected] 

Events

Environmental (updated November 10, 2025) The following information is subject to change at any time without prior notice. If you encounter inaccurate information, please send an email to [email protected].
808 Cleanups                                                                                                                              (updated 04/14/26)
https://808cleanups.org/get-involved/

Service Opportunities:
  • Beach Cleanups 
  • Invasive Species Removal 
  • Ecosystem Restoration Events (e.g. Cutting Koa Haole, Stump Removal, Clearing abandoned Campsites). 

Service Location: Islandwide (Oʻahu); check calendar for events (e.g., Waimānalo, Diamond Head).

Requirements:
  1. Sign liability waiver.
  2. Proper attire: Closed-toe shoes, Long pants/long sleeve.
  3. Sun protection: sunscreen, hat.
  4. Bring bug spray/mosquito repellent. 

Days/Times: Variable (e.g., Saturdays 8 AM-12 PM; monthly events).

Site Contact: Michael Loftin

Phone: (808) 892-3464.
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Email: [email protected].
Citizens' Climate Lobby                                                                                                               (updated 2025)
https://citizensclimatelobby.org/chapters/HI_Honolulu/

Service Opportunities:
  • Engage elected officials (county, state, congressional) on climate solutions
  • Community organizing
  • Legislative advocacy.
  • Join monthly meetings, lobby days (e.g., virtual Fall Conference Nov 14-15, 2025), and action teams.
  • Build support for bipartisan carbon pricing.

Service Location: Sinclair Library at UH-Mānoa or virtual (Honolulu Chapter).

Requirements:
  1. Join chapter.
  2. Attend training (e.g., Climate Advocate Workshop).
  3. Open to all; no experience needed.

Days/Times: Flexible; monthly meetings (check Facebook page @HSTACentralChapter); lobby weeks (e.g., Nov 17-21, 2025).

Site Contact: Honolulu Chapter Leader.

Email: [email protected].
Diamond Head State Monument                                                                                     (updated 04/14/2026)
https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/

Service Opportunities: 
  • Habitat Restoration: invasive species removal (weeding, pruning),
  • Native plant propagation/planting (e.g., Milo, ʻaʻaliʻi, ʻilima, kokiʻo ʻulaʻula, pohinahina) in Milo Garden, Circle Garden, Trolley Garden.
  • Work in crater or makai slopes.

Service Location: Diamond Head State Monument, 18th Ave, Honolulu (crater floor/makai slopes).

Requirements:
  1. Register via https://dlnr.ivolunteer.com/#1
  2. Closed-toe shoes, long pants/sleeves, sun protection, water.
  3. Moderate/heavy lifting; uneven terrain.
  4. Tools/gloves provided (bring personal if desired).

Days/Times: Various (e.g., Saturdays 9 AM-12 PM; monthly workdays).

Site Contact: Olivia Storms

Phone: (808) 353-1974 

Email: [email protected]
Friends of Diamond Head                                                                                                   (updated 04/14/2026)
https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/ 

Service Opportunities:
  • Care for native plants (Naupaka, shower trees, ferns, Kiawe, ficus)
  • Rake leaves, pick up trash, eradicate Koa Haole sprouts, trim elephant grass/weeds.
  • Support makai slopes restoration with weeding/pruning.

Service Location: Muriel Flanders Park (east side of Diamond Head).

Requirements:
  1. Proper clothing - Closed-toe shoes, clothing for dirty/hot work.
  2. Sun protection.
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Days/Times: Wednesdays 12:00 PM-3:00 PM; additional events via DLNR calendar.

Site Contact: Michael Ross.

Email: [email protected].
Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife                               (updated 04/14/26)
https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dofaw/events/category/volunteer/

Service Opportunities:
  • Mālama ʻāina - Support endangered species, control non-native invasives
  • Learn ecosystems/culture.
  • Activities - Out-planting natives, trail maintenance, invasive removal, bio-surveys, outreach.

Service Location: Various (Oʻahu).
  • Kawainui/Pouhala/Hamakua Marsh Wildlife Sanctuaries.
  • Paiko Lagoon/offshore islands.
  • Kamananui Valley (Moanalua Forest Reserve).
  • Pahole/Kaʻala/Kaʻena Natural Area Reserves.

Requirements:
  1. Register at https://dlnr.ivolunteer.com/#1
  2. TB clearance/background check.
  3. Flexible scheduling.

Days/Times: Various (e.g., Saturdays 8 AM-12 PM; monthly events like coqui frog capture Thursdays 5:30-9:30 PM).

Site Contact: Kekai Mar.

Phone: (808) 518-8503.

Email: [email protected].
E Malama Hanauma Service-Learning/Stewardship Program                               (updated 2025)
Environmental Promotion Team                                                                                            (updated 04/14/26)
Service Opportunities: 
  • Unite students (all disciplines) for campus sustainability. 
  • Organize events/awareness campaigns (e.g. Earth Week April), field trips. 
  • Improve event planning, teamwork, organization, public speaking, creativity.

Days/Times: 
  • Monday & Wednesday, 12:00PM - 1:00PM
  • Two Saturdays each month, larger work days are hosted and to be shared about via flyer. 

Service Location: On-Campus (KCC), possible field trips.

Site Contact: Ari Smtih

Email: [email protected]
Hawaiʻi Marine Animal Response                                                                                            (updated 2025)
https://h-mar.org/jointheteam/

Service Opportunities:
  • Respond to haul-outs/strandings of marine wildlife (monk seals, sea turtles, dolphins, whales, seabirds).
  • Shoreline response, health management, rescue/rehab support, outreach.
  • Thousands of hours annually.

Service Location: Islandwide (Oʻahu/Molokaʻi).

Requirements:
  1. Access to insured vehicle/Hawaiʻi driver's license;
  2. Devices: Smartphone; Zoom camera/binoculars.
  3. Comfortable walking long distances/carrying 50 lbs.
  4. Physically fit; minimum activity levels.
  5. Training provided.

Days/Times: Variable (on-call/response-based).

Site Contact: Brittany Arvizu.

Email: [email protected].
Hawaiʻi Nature Center                                                                                                         (updated 2026)
https://hawaiinaturecenter.org/become-a-volunteer/

Service Opportunities:
  • Environmental education support.
  • Wetland restoration, gardening/ landscaping, invasive species removal, maintain field sites.
  • Fun with scouts, service groups, businesses. 

Service Location: 2131 Makiki Heights Drive, Honolulu (End of access road, green classroom below DLNR Forestry base yard).

Requirements:
  1. Application/orientation/training.
  2. Own transportation.
  3. Education roles: SSN for background check, references. Some experience preferred.

Days/Times: Monday-Saturday (M-F teaching docents; T-Th/Sat/Sun others).

Site Contact: Pauline Kawamata, Operations and Volunteer Program Manager.

Phone: (808) 955-0100 ext. 118.
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Email: [email protected].
Honolulu Zoo Society                                                                                                         (updated 2026)
https://www.honoluluzoo.org/get-involved/volunteer-programs/

Service Opportunities:
  • Interpretation (conservation education).
  • Keeper Support.
  • Special Events.

Service Location: Honolulu Zoo, 151 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815.

Typical Shift Times: 
  • Interpretation- 9:45 AM-1:15 PM
  • Keeper Support- 8:00 AM-12:00PM

Site Contact: Shelby Carlos, Volunteer Manager

Email: [email protected]
Waikiki Elementary School Food Farm                                                                               (updated 2025)
http://projectgreenwaikiki.blogspot.com/

Service Opportunities:
  • Grow food by/for kids - Encourage ʻāina love/protection, food origins/pride.
  • Work with students (4-11) in garden, design lessons, cook garden foods, maintain beds, community workdays. 

Service Location: Waikiki Elementary School, 3710 Leahi Ave., Honolulu (back by basketball courts; park on Leahi St.).

Requirements:
  1. Sign in at office.
  2. Semester commitment (min 20 hours).
  3. Get dirty.
  4. Positive attitude.
  5. Self-directed.
  6. Patient with young kids.
  7. Discussions/reflections.

Days/Times: Mon 8-11 AM; Tue/Thu/Fri 8-11 AM & 12:30-2 PM (no Wed).

Site Contact: Mary Shook-Starsinic.

Email: [email protected].
Kumuola Foundation                                                                                                           (updated 11/25/2025)
https://www.kumuolahawaii.com/programs

Service Opportunities: 
  • Farm hand/steward: Weeding, mulching, planting, pruning, prepare gardens/loʻi kalo.
  • Support Kumuola Hou (native flora/fauna propagation),
  • Kumuola Keiki (outdoor cultural learning).
  • Community service/student projects.

Service Location: Waʻaloa Way, Mānoa - further directions sent via email.

Requirements:
  1. Sign liability waiver.
  2. Participation in 30-min on-site orientation.
  3. Aloha/respect for environment and people.
  4. Prepare for rain/mosquitoes (pants, closed-toe shoes, repellent).

Days/Times: By appointment only. Call and/ or email to make an appointment and get confirmation.

Site Contact: Pauline Kuki Navales.

Phone: (808) 284-6798.

Email: [email protected]
Waikiki Aquarium                                                                                                                    (updated 11/25/2025)
​https://www.waikikiaquarium.org/support/volunteer/volunteer-opportunities/

Service Opportunities:
  • Volunteer Management (trainings/events/recruitment).
  • Coastal Restoration/Beach Clean-Ups (organize algae/cleanups, grants).
  • Community Outreach/Hospitality (media/fundraisers/events with officials/corporations).
  • Aquarium Educators (visitor engagement), Docents (K-6 tours), and Teen Educator Program (summer, high school).

Service Location: 2777 Kalakaua Avenue, Kapiʻolani Park, Honolulu.

Requirements:
  1. 18+
  2. Provide a cover letter/resume/class schedule to [email protected].
  3. Interview.
  4. Background check/TB clearance.
  5. Internships case-by-case.

Days/Times: Flexible (e.g., Teen Program summer 2025 applications closed; notify for 2026).

Site Contact: Kaila Lucero

Phone: (808) 440-9020.

Email: [email protected].​
Surfrider Spirit Sessions                                                                                                           (updated 2025)
​https://www.surferspirit.org/volunteer

Service Opportunity:
  • Surf mentor for at-risk/adjudicated youth:
  • Teach ocean awareness, surfing, environmental sensitivity, Hawaiian culture via holistic programs.
  • Support sessions, community service days.
  • Non-mentoring: Logistics, events, admin.

Service Location: Waikiki Beach.

Requirements:
  1. Intermediate+ surfer.
  2. Commit 4/8 consecutive Saturdays (4 hours each).
  3. 4-hour orientation at 902 Alder St.
  4. Clean/sober/drug-free.
  5. 23+ years old
  6. Dedicated/outgoing/caring/patient.

Days/Times: Sessions 8 AM or noon (Spring: Mar 4-Apr 22; Summer: Jun 3-Jul 22; Fall: Sep 9-Oct 28).

Site Contact: Sam Rodriguez or Joel Speier.

Phone: (808) 593-1718.

Email: [email protected].
Lyon Arboretum                                                                                                                                (updated 2025)
https://manoa.hawaii.edu/lyon/support/volunteer/

Service Opportunity:
  • Children’s programs.
  • Micro-propagation lab.
  • Native species conservation.
  • Invasive removal.
  • Greenhouse/ethnobotanical garden work.
  • Log in to Volgistics for opportunities (groups/individuals/short-term).

Service Location: 3860 Mānoa Road, Honolulu (past old Paradise Park).

Requirements:
  1. Long pants/sleeves, sturdy shoes with traction.
  2. Application via Volgistics.

Days/Times: Varies with schedules (M-F 9 AM-3 PM public access).

Site Contact: Richard Sears.

Phone: (808) 988-0461.

Email: [email protected].
Māla Maunuunu                                                                                                                     (updated 11/25/2025)
https://sites.google.com/hawaii.edu/kapiolani-cc-malamaunuunu/home?authuser=0​ 
https://www.kapiolani.hawaii.edu/event-organizer/mala-maunuunu/
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Service Opportunities:
  • Maintain Indigenous/endemic garden.
  • Learn about protocol, plant use/care; researching plants.
  • Host tours, interdisciplinary learning, cultural events.
  • Undergraduate research, service-learning, community service.

Service Location: Behind Mānele Building, KCC Campus.

Requirements:
  1. Orientation (per calendar).
  2. Work with others.
  3. Desire for cultural plants.
  4. Commit to time slot + one Saturday workday.

Days/Times: Wednesdays/Fridays (specific slots via calendar); Saturdays variable.

Site Contact: Kohlby-Vincent Soong, Mala Maunuunu Facilitator & Internship Support Specialist.

Phone: (808) 734-9360.

Email: [email protected]
Mālama i nā Ahupua'a                                                                                                                    (updated 2025)
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13utfg3JajCkE5xiN5Khl1San7msg6YCcgpc8wl27Xi8/edit?usp=sharing

Service Opportunities:
  • Learn Hawaiian history/land tenure;
  • Environmental stewardship in loʻi, fishponds, mountains, wetlands, forests.
  • 20-hour requirement: Orientation, upland/lowland/fishpond experiences, reflection.

Service Location: Various ahupuaʻa (Oʻahu).

Requirements:
Days/Times: Mostly weekends 8 AM-1 PM (core events Sat/Sun).

Site Contact: Dr. Ulla Hasager or Daven Chang, MINA Student Leader.

Phone: (808) 956-4218.

Email: [email protected] or [email protected].
Mānoa Heritage Center                                                                                                      (updated 11/25/2025)
https://www.manoaheritagecenter.org/volunteer/

Service Opportunity: Maintain Native Hawaiian garden - duties may include weeding, mulching, moving soil, trimming, and transplanting. 

Service Location: 2856 O'ahu Avenue, Honolulu (7th driveway on the left, after Cooper Rd.).

Requirements:
  • Phone contact/pre-visit/application. 

Days/Times: Friday mornings, 8:00 AM-12:00 PM

Site Contact: Kanoa Nakamura, Garden Educator.

Phone: (808) 988-1287.

Email: [email protected]
Waiakeakua
Service Opportunities:
  • Biocultural Forest Restoration

Service Location: Waiakeakua Forest in Manoa Valley

Days/Times: Every third Sunday

Site Contact: Dr. Miku

Email: [email protected]