Kanaka Kauila
Our Wealth is Family, Our Currency is Community
Kanaka Kauila
Our Wealth is Family, Our Currency is Community
About Kanaka Kauila
Our Vision
Our vision is a thriving Molokai where the Native Hawaiian Community prospers, upholding the values of aloha ‘āina. We envision a future where our people are no longer tethered to outside economic support but are leaders in sustainable living. By 2040, Kanaka Kauila aims to see Molokai transformed into an island of abundance—where poverty is alleviated, unemployment is a thing of the past, drugs are eliminated, education is elevated, and our energy, food, and resources are provided in a sustainable manner for our people, from our land.
Our Mission
At Kanaka Kauila, our mission is to revitalize and empower the Native Hawaiian Community of Molokai by revitalizing sustainable food practices, eliminating the control of resources by non-Hawaiian, and developing independent energy solutions. We are committed to fostering self-sufficiency and resilience in the face of economic challenges. Through innovative approaches and community collaboration, we will enhance the well-being and independence of our people, honoring our cultural heritage and nurturing the environment for generations to come.
About Kanaka Kauila: Initiatives
Education
Empowering the Native Hawaiian Community
Overcoming Socio-economic Barriers
At Kanaka Kauila, we strive to improve the lives of underprivileged children by providing them with education, food, and shelter. Our aim is to break the cycle of poverty and give these children a chance at a better future.
Overcoming Socio-economic Barriers
Empowering the Native Hawaiian Community
Overcoming Socio-economic Barriers
We are working to break down barriers and obstacles such as language differences, geographical isolation, and travel costs. This will create an abundance of opportunities for all people on Molokai to flourish.
Empowering the Native Hawaiian Community
Empowering the Native Hawaiian Community
Empowering the Native Hawaiian Community
We are seeking to create tailored programs for Molokai's Native Hawaiian population. Our goal is to employ the talents of the people to empower themselves to create the life they desire.
Our Board of Directors
Isaac Adolpho - Board Chair/President
Isaac Adolpho is one of 8 children, born and raised in Ho’olehua, Moloka’i (Go Farmers!), 3rd generation homestead family, from his Grandparents Kaeo Kulani, and Victoria Adolpho. Isaac’s comes to the board as Chairman with over 18 years of successful experience in the government contracting space, and brings a significant depth of knowledge. His strategic oversight has propelled corporate success, achieving significant earnings and operational advancements under his leadership though multiple organizations. Isaac's expertise in management and operational efficiency has been pivotal, while executing projects efficiently, effectively. Skilled in strategic planning and financial management, Isaac brings a wealth of expertise to the team. His education in finance and project management, complemented by real world experience, is crucial to the organization’s mission and vision. Isaac’s commitment and visionary leadership continue to drive meaningful progress and innovation within the organization. Isaac is married to his wife, Rachelle, of 19 years and has two children.
Ian Kealoha - Vice President/Secretary
Ian Kealoha serves as the Vice President and Secretary, bringing over a decade of experience in heavy equipment operation. Throughout his career, Ian has demonstrated exceptional skill in managing high-stakes projects under pressure, contributing significantly to construction initiatives as a HMA Plant Loader Operator at Road & Highway Builders and previously at Nan Inc. His operational acumen and dedication to teamwork have been critical in maintaining safety and efficiency on the job. Ian's ability to navigate complex challenges and his commitment to effective team collaboration are assets to his role on the board. He is recognized for his problem-solving skills and robust knowledge in equipment maintenance. Ian is a graduate of Damien Memorial High School with extensive practical training in heavy equipment operation. His hands-on expertise and strategic insights are invaluable to the board's objectives. Ian is married to his wife, Frankie, of 16 years and has two children.
Lee Kamenitz - Treasurer
Lee Kaminetz has over 25 years of legal experience in the private and public sectors. His legal career includes significant practices in complex civil litigation, transactions, and over 17 years as in-house counsel at the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. Lee serves as an adjunct professor at the University of San Diego School of Law. He also serves as a director on several non-profit Boards, is a past president of the Old Mission Rotary Club, and is the current president of the Art Pratt Foundation, which provides grants to eligible non-profit organizations in San Diego and Baja California, Mexico. Lee is a graduate of Wake Forest University and the University of Maryland School of Law. During law school, Lee worked in the Constitutional Litigation Unit of the Legal Resources Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa, assisting prominent South African attorneys, including President Nelson Mandela’s personal attorney. As an undergraduate, Lee served as a Congressional intern for the Honorable Steny H. Hoyer. Lee is married to his wife, Cass, of 24 years and has three children.