Help the ‘āina (land) by taking part in a volunteer project. VOLUNTOURISM , or when tourists take time to give back to the place they’re visiting, has increased in popularity, and Maui is a great place to pitch in. On these projects, visitors not only get to help out, but they also learn about native plants, Hawaiian culture, the marine environment and aloha spirit.
Be prepared by having a water bottle, bug repellent, sunscreen and the right clothes (possibly long-sleeve shirts or boots) at the ready, depending on what the organization suggests.
PACIFIC WHALE FOUNDATION has a variety of volunteer opportunities, including a simple beach cleanup and pairings with organizations for land restoration projects.
Visit pacifi cwhale.org. PACIFIC WHALE FOUNDATION 800-942-5311 EXT. 1