At Every Age, Through Every Step—A Hand to Hold.
Mahalo for being a part of our YMCA ‘ohana. Your generosity, partnership, and trust have given thousands of children, teens, families, and kūpuna in our community—literally—a hand to hold—a hand that guides, supports, and lifts.
In 2024, that hand took many forms: a teacher at our new early learning center in a Wai‘anae Shelter, creating a safe space for keiki whose families are experiencing houseles-ness; a mentor in our free Y Teen Club, helping a young person build confidence and stay on track toward graduation; a caring staff member serving a warm meal to a kūpuna who had been feeling alone, reminding them they are valued and connected.
These moments are part of a much larger story you’ll see in this annual report—stories of hope, resilience, and opportunity made possible by your helping hand. On the opposite page, you’ll find the full scope of our reach and how, together, we strengthened our community across our islands in 2024.
From expanding youth mental health services statewide, to opening early learning programs in communities with the greatest need, to offering affordable short-term housing options at our Central YMCA, to guiding teens toward brighter futures through programs like our 2024 College Camp, to raising more than $1 million through our Annual Campaign to ensure access to the Y’s life-changing programs and services—your commitment has made it possible for the Y to meet urgent needs while building a stronger future.
Each number reflects lives changed because someone cared enough to reach out. This is the power of your hand—whether it’s given through time, talent, or treasure—and it’s what makes the Y a place where all can grow, connect, and thrive.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to ensuring everyone in our community has the helping hand and support they need to reach their full potential. Mahalo nui loa for continuing to stand with us, hand in hand, to strengthen the foundation of our community.
LISA ONTAI
Interim President & CEO
ARNOLD MARTINES
Chair
Board of Directors
Through Every Stage of Childhood
At the Y, we provide safe, enriching spaces where toddlers and keiki can grow, explore, and discover who they are through early learning, preschools, and afterschool programs that nurture the whole child.
Early Learning in Houseless Shelters
Even in paradise, some families face unimaginable hardships. That’s why the Y has opened early learning centers across Wai‘anae, IHS, and Maui—offering free preschool for keiki who need it most. These nurturing spaces help children prepare for kindergarten while connecting families to vital support services, breaking the cycle of poverty by giving every child a strong start.
Heroic Journey: Free in Every Y Day Camp
The Y’s Heroic Journey mental wellness program empowers keiki to grow strong—inside and out. Rooted in Hawaiian values and brought to life with superheroes like Star Wars and Black Panther, this 32-lesson series helps children build resilience, prevent bullying, and develop emotional awareness. Developed by top psychologists and educators, Heroic Journey is a thoughtful, culturally grounded gift parents truly value.
Guiding Teens to Find Their Path
The Y helps teens build strength, purpose, and resilience through free summer memberships, leadership programs, and mental health support, opening doors to friendship, fitness, and a brighter future.
The Y Teen Club—Free and Life-Changing
Thanks to a multi-million dollar state grant, the YMCA launched Y Teen Club—offering free afterschool, intersession, and summer programs for middle school students through 2026. Teens gain academic support, caring mentors, and the chance to grow through leadership, outdoor, and service activities. Youth ages 13+ also receive a free YMCA membership, empowering them with access to health and wellness programs.
2024 Enrollment
| Kaimukī-Wai‘ale | 93 |
| Kalihi | 76 |
| Leeward | 71 |
| Mililani | 64 |
| Nu‘uanu | 101 |
| Wai‘anae Coast | 46 |
| Total | 451 |
Statewide Support for Teen Mental Health
With over $7 million in combined state and federal funding, we’re expanding teen mental wellness and substance abuse recovery programs across central O‘ahu, the Wai‘anae Coast, Kaua‘i, Maui, Lāna‘i and Moloka‘i. In partnership with the Maui Family Y and local agencies, we’re helping youth affected by the wildfires. From trauma-informed care to leadership and healthy lifestyle programs, we’re giving thousands of teens the support they need to heal and thrive.
Where College Dreams Start to Feel Real
When teens don’t know what’s next, College Camp helps them imagine—and prepare for—a better future.
Opening Doors to College
This summer, our annual College Camp at University of Hawai‘i at Manoa gave 20 teens in unsheltered or transitional living situations the skills, support, and confidence they need to succeed after high school. In partnership with the DOE, the program provided mentorship, college readiness tools, and a glimpse of life on campus. Led by our dedicated Atherton Y team, College Camp offers more than guidance—it offers a path forward and a sense of hope.
Matthew’s Y Journey
Growing up in Section 8 housing, tuition felt like a roadblock for Matthew. Through his work and volunterism at the YMCA, he learned about FAFSA, financial aid, and scholarships, which allowed him to attend college debt-free. More than the programs, it was the mentors who believed in him that made the difference. Now pursuing a degree in psychology, Matthew credits the Y with shaping his leadership, passion for service, and commitment to making a lasting impact.
Growing Older, Growing Stronger
Healthy aging starts with movement, connection, and nourishment. That’s why the Y offers kūpuna lunches, tai chi, tech classes, and more—serving more older adults than any organization on O‘ahu.
Better Health for Adults 60+
This year, the YMCA of Honolulu expanded Enhanced Fitness—a free, 16-week program for adults 60+. Held at Wai‘anae Coast and Leeward YMCAs and Pearl City Community Church, the program improves mobility, reduces arthritis symptoms, and prevents falls. Certified instructors lead fun, low-impact classes for all fitness levels—building strength, confidence, and connection.
Aging Well at the Y
Windward YMCA member Hiroshi, age 87, was recently featured on KITV’s Aging Well segment, shining a light on the importance of staying active at every age. A dedicated tai chi practitioner and instructor, Hiroshi exemplifies healthy aging through movement, balance, and community connection. “Tai Chi is something everyone can enjoy,” Hiroshi shared. “Especially seniors—it’s low impact and builds core strength, leg muscles, and balance.”
Because Community Means Everyone
We believe no one should be left behind. That’s why the YMCA offers more than programs—we offer refuge, relief, and real support when people need it most.
Showing Up for Inclusion and Community
Led by our LGBTQ Employee Resource Group, the YMCA of Honolulu proudly participated in the Honolulu Pride Parade and the 33rd Annual AIDS Walk. Y staff, friends, and community members showed up in solidarity to support LGBTQ+ inclusion and individuals living with HIV. From waving banners to walking with purpose, our Y community stood united for dignity, diversity, and the power of belonging.
Central Y Extends Lifelines for Those in Need
In 2024, the Central YMCA partnered with the State of Hawai‘i’s Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions to help long-term guests—many of them kūpuna and people with disabilities—transition into more suitable housing.
Among them was 65-year-old Mavis Santos, who had called the Y home for nearly a decade. After losing her ability to work, the Y’s safe and affordable accommodations became her lifeline. With tears in her eyes, she expressed relief: “I was really worried… but now I have hope.”
Real Change Starts with Us
We don’t just respond to community needs—we lead with purpose and compassion. From passing bills to marching in parades, the Y continues to be a powerful force for equity, empathy, and lasting change.
Y Teens Take the Lead in Advocacy
In 2024, Y teens and staff brought their voices to Washington, D.C., and the Hawai‘i State Capitol to champion youth mental health and for how the Y unites kūpuna for real change. Honolulu teen Andrew MacDonald reflected, “I gained a new appreciation for how the Y unites kūpuna for real change.” Their efforts helped advance HB2042—a Y-developed mental health bill—and earned statewide recognition for the Heroic Journey youth wellness program.
Connecting People, Place, and Purpose
We don’t just respond to community needs—we lead with purpose and compassion.
Restoring the Land, Growing Future Stewards
Camp Erdman’s Dryland Forest Restoration Initiative is helping return native ecosystems to their rightful place. Through hands-on efforts, participants remove invasive species like California Grass and Haole Koa, prep the land with weed mats, and plant native species nurtured in our on-site nursery. Along the way, participants deepen their understanding of Hawai‘i’s ecosystems and our Y core value of mālama—caring for the land and future generations.
STEM Meets Stewardship at Camp Erdman
In 2025, YMCA Camp Erdman will launch two hands-on learning initiatives blending STEM, conservation, and culture. The Rainwater Reuse and Education Project will teach campers sustainable water management while they help design and build a catchment system to irrigate native plantings. A new Aloha ‘Āina voluntourism program will engage visitors in removing invasive species, tending native seedlings, and learning Hawaiian history—linking science with stewardship of Hawai‘i’s ‘Āina.
Building Stronger Communities, Near and Far
Healthy Kids Day Energizes the Island
The sound of laughter echoed across O‘ahu as families came together for the YMCA of Honolulu’s Healthy Kids Day. This free, island-wide celebration offered games, obstacle courses, arts and crafts, fitness activities, and one-of-a-kind experiences like pony rides, butterfly gardens, and petting zoos—highlighting how the Y keeps Hawai‘i’s keiki, teens, and families healthy, active, and connected year-round.
Building Bonds Through Conservation
YMCA participants joined the Moloka‘i Conservation Trip, a week-long, hands-on service-learning program rooted in preserving Hawaiian history, culture, and environment. Partnering with trusted community organizations, they worked on projects such as invasive species removal, fishpond restoration, kalo farming, and sand dune restoration. The experience deepened cultural understanding, strengthened connections to the land, and built lasting relationships with the people of Moloka‘i.
Service That Spans Oceans
This year’s Alternative Spring Break took students to Sibonga, Cebu, where they built classrooms, repaired community spaces, and connected deeply with local children and families. For many, it was their first time abroad—and a life-changing lesson in gratitude, cultural understanding, and service. Thanks to donor support, financial barriers were lifted, allowing students to focus on giving their best and returning home inspired to lead and serve their communities.
