Case Studies

Re-Use Hawai’i

In my capacity as a marketing consultant, I was asked to help Re-use Hawai’i create a presentation on the benefits of deconstruction over demolition. The head of the organization then delivered this pitch to architects and local government officials outlining the value of saving building materials from ending up in landfills.

In my capacity as a photographer, I helped this non-profit document the hard work of those who are tasked with dismantling buildings and re-using salvageable materials, fixtures, furniture, and equipment.

Every year, this group of dedicated de-constructors diverts an average of one million pounds of construction and demolition materials from the landfill, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 583 tons … enabling the circular economy to thrive.

Aloha Tree Alliance

Established as a nonprofit organization in 2020, Aloha Tree Alliance members  see themselves as community collaborators and allies. They are doing their part to slow climate change and foster cultural respect and awareness of natural resources across the Hawaiian Islands.

Their pilot project, which I have been documenting, involves the restoration of the watershed at Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail, on Oahu.

Bringing K-12 students to the restoration site and teaching the importance of mālama ‘aina, the watershed, and native tree identification, ATA created a partnership with KUPU Hawaii Youth Conservation Corps program.

The group’s volunteers hike up on weekends to plant native trees and shrubs … over 6,000 to date. And to ensure the long-term viability of their efforts, they water these plantings every week, as well.

Ballet Hawaii

For over 45 years, Ballet Hawaii has offered programs, productions, and presentations that contribute to the enrichment of the cultural climate in the community and provide the very best in dance for Hawaii.

Perhaps they are best known for their lavish Hawaiian-themed Nutcracker set in the 1858 Kingdom of Hawaii. They offer a one-night performance at no cost to attendees who are from lower-income schools and households. I had the honor of being granted an all-access pass to photograph this performance and to help Ballet Hawaii tell their story of philanthropy.