The Kanikapila Project, a post-fire initiative on Maui, has been uplifting individuals of all ages affected by the devastating Lahaina wildfire through the therapeutic influence of music since October 2023. The project has provided music lessons and distributed over 400 ʻukulele to date.
Operated by volunteers, the project offers music lessons as a means of healing for survivors at the Royal Lahaina Hotel, which has generously provided space for this purpose. Jason Jerome, lead teacher and proprietor who lost his business, Lahaina Music, in the fires, has played a crucial role in the project’s success, according to the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset.
In a recent event held at Hale Pāʻina on the Lahainaluna High School campus in April, the Project and its founder, David Blake, were honored. Rotary International President Gordon McInally presented a contribution to support their ongoing efforts during the event.
The Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset highlighted that a proposal backed by the Rotary D5000 Foundation Fires Relief effort enabled the purchase of an additional 75 ʻukulele and provided compensation for teachers committed to teaching three times a week.
“This generous support has brought the healing power of music to those who are in need,” stated the club.
