If you’ve ever wondered how to actually integrate into island life beyond just living here, volunteering might be the answer you’re looking for. It’s not just about showing up and doing good—it’s about building real relationships, understanding the culture on a deeper level, and honestly, it’s one of the fastest ways to stop feeling like an outsider.
Chelsea Fernandez and Danielle Harris, both from Maui, sat down to talk about what volunteering in Hawaiʻi really looks like—the opportunities, the mindset you need, and how to do it in a way that actually matters to the community. They share personal stories, practical advice, and even call out a few things you should avoid if you want to be invited back.
Whether you’re thinking about moving to Hawaiʻi, recently landed, or you’ve been here a while but haven’t figured out how to plug in yet, this conversation is worth 20 minutes of your time. Watch it first, then scroll down for the breakdown, resources, and links to get you started.
What do you think?