Vision
The vision of this organization is that the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail and its network of trails are perpetuated as a well-managed, appropriately-used, and widely appreciated, community-centered resource that connects us to our ancestors while serving as a bridge to create understanding and respect for Hawaiʻi trail heritage.
Our Mission
Ala Kahakai Trail Association’s mission is to support and guide a community-managed trail that honors those who came before and perpetuates for those to follow – with protocols and respect for Hawai‘i past, present and future.
Purpose
The purpose of the Association (through the Board of Directors) is to maintain the integrity of the vision. It is not an advocacy board. It provides a legal structure and community management support to undertake the various projects and initiatives needed to reach the vision and fulfill the mission of the Ala Kahakai Trail Association and to provide support to the National Park Service in its role in the administration of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
VALUES AND PRINCIPLES
Our values and principles are inspired by Native Hawaiian practice. We strive to be pono (in balance) as an overarching value in all that we do. To be in a state of pono or balance, the following values and principles are essential:
Conduct that is humble and invites input and participation from others
Treat the trails with reverence and respect
Look to the past for guidance
To continue, persevere, preserve, and endure
To be responsible and to take responsibility
To be firmly bound together in unity and joy
Haʻahaʻa
Hōʻihi
Hoʻi Hou
Hoʻomau
Kuleana
ʻOnipaʻa
While these are not the only Hawaiian values of importance to guide us and keep within our hearts, we have chosen to highlight these. In accepting the kuleana embodied by our Vision and Mission, we must `onipa`a kākou (remain steadfast, firm, resolute, and determined) in our partnerships and stewardship of the trails.