Hawaii Community Foundation Grant

Here is a possible grant proposal:

To: Hawaii Community Foundation
From: Aloha Aina Project
Subject: Coastal Restoration Grant Application
Date: May 18, 2023

Aloha,

We are writing to request a Coastal Restoration Grant of $25,000 from the Hawaii Community Foundation to support our project, Aloha Aina: Restoring Hawaiian Cultural and Environmental Resources.

Our project aims to restore and protect the coastal habitats and ecosystems that are essential for the preservation of Hawaiian culture and identity. We believe that by restoring the health and beauty of the land and sea, we can also restore the dignity and pride of the Hawaiian people.

Our project has three main objectives:

To restore and enhance the coral reefs, wetlands, dunes, and beaches that provide habitat for native plants and animals, support fisheries and tourism, and protect against erosion and flooding.
To engage and educate the local community, especially the youth, about the importance of coastal conservation and stewardship, and the connection between environmental and cultural well-being.
To revitalize and celebrate the traditional Hawaiian practices and values that honor and care for the land and sea, such as malama aina (caring for the land), laulima (cooperation), and aloha (love and respect).

Our project will involve the following activities:

Conducting regular beach cleanups to remove marine debris and invasive species from the shorelines.
Planting native vegetation to stabilize the dunes and prevent erosion.
Installing artificial reef structures to enhance coral growth and diversity.
Monitoring and documenting the changes in water quality, coral health, fish abundance, and shoreline erosion.
Organizing workshops, field trips, and cultural events to educate and inspire the community about coastal restoration and Hawaiian culture.
Partnering with local schools, organizations, businesses, and government agencies to increase awareness and support for our project.

Our project will have the following outcomes:

Improved ecological conditions of the coastal habitats and ecosystems, resulting in increased biodiversity, productivity, resilience, and aesthetic value.
Increased social benefits for the community, such as increased recreational opportunities, economic benefits, cultural awareness, civic engagement, and sense of place.
Increased cultural benefits for the Hawaiian people, such as increased knowledge, pride, identity, self-determination, and empowerment.

Our project aligns with the mission and vision of the Hawaii Community Foundation to create positive change in Hawaii by addressing critical issues and enhancing the quality of life for all. Our project also aligns with the goals and criteria of the Coastal Restoration Grants program to support projects that restore coastal habitats and ecosystems in Hawaii.

We have a 501 (c)3 status as a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting environmental and cultural sustainability in Hawaii. We have a team of qualified staff and volunteers who have experience and expertise in coastal restoration, environmental education,
and Hawaiian culture. We have a budget of $50,000 for our project,
of which we have secured $25,000 from other sources,
such as donations,
fundraisers,
and in-kind contributions.
We are requesting $25,000 from the Hawaii Community Foundation
to cover the remaining costs
of our project,
such as materials,
equipment,
transportation,
and outreach.

We appreciate your consideration of our grant application. We believe that our project will make a significant contribution to the restoration of Hawaii’s coastal resources and culture. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Mahalo,

Aloha Aina Project Team