MAʻO Organic Farms
Health impacts persist across time and extend to the broader community
MAʻO Organic Farms is not just a farm — it’s a movement. Grounded in the values of aloha ʻāina and youth empowerment, this initiative supports local food systems while fostering health, education, and leadership. HIA’s collaboration with MAʻO explores how land-based internships and hands-on farming help shape healthier individuals and more resilient communities.
Why the MAʻO Organic Farms Partnership Matters
This collaboration highlights how youth empowerment and land-based education create measurable health and community benefits. The research uncovered key outcomes that demonstrate the broader value of this model.
Reduced Health Risks
Youth participants experienced a 60% reduction in diabetes risk through consistent lifestyle changes and education.
Economic Impact
The program generated an estimated $120,000 in annual healthcare savings by preventing chronic conditions.
Ripple Effect
Health improvements extended beyond participants to include families and peers, strengthening community wellness.
Data-Driven Insights
The findings are supported by surveys, interviews, and biospecimen data for reliable, evidence-based conclusions.
Youth Leadership
The initiative empowered young people to lead with purpose through hands-on training, farming, and advocacy.
Our Research Approach
HIA partnered with MAʻO Organic Farms to evaluate the Youth Leadership Training program through a community-driven and evidence-based framework. The research approach combined multiple methodologies to assess both health and social outcomes meaningfully.
Mixed Methods Evaluation
Integrated surveys, interviews, and biospecimen analysis to capture a well-rounded view of participant impact.
Community Partnership
Co-developed the evaluation with MAʻO staff and youth leaders to ensure alignment with cultural values and real community needs.
Youth-Centered Focus
Designed around the lived experiences and growth of youth participants, ensuring the research stayed meaningful and relevant.
Cultivating Leadership Through Hands-On Learning
The MAʻO Organic Farms evaluation revealed compelling health, social, and economic benefits that demonstrate the power of land-based learning and youth leadership. These outcomes reflect the depth and value of a community-led research model.
Diabetes Risk Reduction
Youth participants saw a 60% decrease in diabetes risk through improved diet, physical activity, and education.
Cost Savings in Healthcare
The initiative led to an estimated $120,000 in annual healthcare savings by preventing chronic conditions among youth.
Broader Community Benefits
Improvements extended beyond participants to their families and social circles, amplifying the health impact across the community.