Service Opportunities

Volunteer with Children – Make a Lasting Impact

Working with children

Summer Community Service project performed in conjunction with the YMCA of Hilo.

Spending time volunteering with children isn’t just about helping—it’s about growth, connection, and making a real difference. Through our partnership with the YMCA of Hilo, participants will have a rewarding opportunity to work with underprivileged children in a supportive and engaging environment.

Each day, you’ll actively mentor and guide young children through their summer curriculum, which focuses on character and leadership development, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness, recreation, and Hawaiian culture. This hands-on experience allows you to form meaningful friendships, serve as a role model, and create a lasting impact on these children’s lives.

Beyond the difference you’ll make for the children, this experience is also personally transformational. Volunteering will push you out of your comfort zone, strengthen your leadership and communication skills, and deepen your understanding of different cultures and communities. By the end of the program, you’ll have gained a greater sense of empathy, responsibility, and confidence—qualities that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Volunteer with Animals

Volunteer with Animals

If you are a dog or cat lover, this is the summer community service opportunity for you! Lend your heart, time and energy to Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary, an amazing no-kill sanctuary that relies on public support and funding to care for the deserving animals in its care. The Sanctuary’s mission is to love, nurture and help find good forever homes for these deserving animals. At this incredible service project, you will walk and play with dogs, cuddle kittens and puppies, feed, clean and groom the dogs and cats, help build and repair kennels, maintain and landscape property and otherwise maintain and improve the lives of the 300+ animals in residence at the Sanctuary.

Service Details – A Meaningful & Transformational Experience

At Project Hawaii, we believe that consistent engagement is the key to making a true impact. That’s why each participant volunteers with the same service project for the duration of the program, allowing for the development of meaningful connections with the children and communities they are helping.

Participants will volunteer Monday through Friday, earning a total of 45 hours (14-day program) or 60 hours (20-day program) of Summer Community Service credit. Spaces at each service site are limited, and project selections are granted on a first-come, first-served basis following enrollment.

The heart of this program extends beyond just giving back—it’s about personal growth, leadership development, and learning through experience. By working hands-on in the community, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for service, develop valuable skills, and leave with a greater understanding of their own ability to make a difference.