What is KIC?

The Koʻolaupoko Impact Collective (KIC) is a network of schools, businesses, and community organizations that work together to create and facilitate opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful, sustained community work.

Through ongoing investment and youth involvement in these curated community projects, we aim to both maximize growth and healing for young people in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and help ensure that critically needed work is completed in our community.

Origins

The Ko'olaupoko Impact Collective was established in 2021. It was conceived from a vision to heal the disconnect, isolation and increased mental health issues brought on by the pandemic by connecting Windward students with meaningful work opportunities that transcend traditional boundaries, create a renewed sense of purpose, and increase connection to the community. Le Jardin Academy's existing Impact Programs model and bounty of partnerships provided a natural foundation from which to launch. A GEER Innovation Award from the Office of Governor David Y. Ige in August 2021 provided $225,000 in innovation startup funds for the project, and Le Jardin Academy matched the investment from its operating budget to ensure KIC's sustainability beyond the grant period and into the future.

Our Mission

The Koʻolaupoko Impact Collective’s mission has four key pillars:

  • Cultivate a more interconnected community through shared, meaningful work that transcends traditional school campus boundaries

  • Nurture a sense of worth, impact and community responsibility in young people

  • Develop place-based knowledge and skills through sustained community engagement

  • Complete critical community work in multi-age teams

Join KIC

If you are a student, teacher, administrator, mentor, or represent a local business or community based organization in Koʻolaupoko, click the button below to become part of the collective. You will receive information about upcoming work projects, be invited to help develop and determine the direction of future projects, and become a collaborative member of a community-wide effort to care for one another and our shared backyard.