Empowering Men Through Culture, Healing, and Responsibility
Men of PAʻA is a community-rooted organization committed to transforming the lives of men impacted by incarceration, trauma, and disconnection. Through cultural reconnection, mentorship, and personal accountability, they support healing and restoration for individuals, families, and communities.
About the Men of PAʻA Initiative
Men of PAʻA (Positive Action Alliance) is rooted in community strength and cultural identity. Based in Puna, Hawaiʻi Island, this initiative empowers Native Hawaiian men impacted by trauma, incarceration, and disconnection. Through mentorship, cultural reconnection, and restorative practices, Men of PAʻA supports healing and long-term transformation.
Cultural Reconnection
Grounding participants in Hawaiian values, language, and tradition to rebuild a strong cultural identity.
Mentorship & Support
Offering peer-led guidance, emotional support, and positive male role models throughout each participant’s journey.
Restorative Practices
Integrating principles of justice, accountability, and reconciliation to support healing and personal growth.
Community Engagement
Building strong connections with local families, organizations, and networks to foster collective well-being.
Strengthening Community Health Through Partnership
Hawaiʻi Integrated Analytics (HIA) works closely with Men of PAʻA to bridge research and community wellness. Through their collaboration in the HISEED (Hawaiʻi Island Study on Early Exposure and Diabetes) project, HIA helps amplify local knowledge, improve health outcomes, and foster culturally rooted public health strategies.
Community Health Screenings
HIA provides free screenings and health assessments to identify early signs of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, helping participants take proactive steps toward wellness.
Culturally Responsive Research
Research methods are designed in alignment with Hawaiian values and traditions, ensuring that the data gathered is respectful, relevant, and impactful for the community.
Building a Foundation for Future Health Programs
Insights from the collaboration inform future health initiatives, empowering Men of PAʻA and other partners to create long-term, sustainable wellness strategies.
Capturing the Spirit of Men of PAʻA
A glimpse into the everyday work of Men of PAʻA — moments of mentorship, cultural reconnection, community healing, and personal transformation shared through powerful images.
