Frequently Asked Questions

What is Project Empower?
Project Empower is a Hawaii-based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization focused on community relief and empowerment.

When was it formed?
Originally founded in 2009 as the philanthropic arm of RevoluSun– supporting more than 40 non-profits by volunteering more than 13,000 hours and donating more than $900,000. Project Empower became an independent nonprofit in 2023.

What are Project Empowers Mission & Goals?
Project Empower's mission is to bring hope and resilience to Hawaii’s communities affected by natural disasters by swiftly deploying critical services, aiding in the rebuilding process and establishing a workforce program– equipping communities with the skills and knowledge to actively participate in the rebuilding process.

Project Empower's first major initiative is focused on those who lost their homes during the Lahaina Wildfires. Project Empower is raising funds to build a solar + storage system that will power the 'Ohana Hope Village, an 80-unit temporary housing community being developed by the non-profit Family of Life Center. Construction on the 'Ohana Hope Village started in August and aims to be completed early in 2024.

Almost as important as providing this immediate need for housing is the goal to to reemploy construction industry workers affected by the economic fallout from the fires. Rather than bringing in labor from the continental United States, as we’ve seen in the past when disaster response and rebuilding efforts scale up, providing stable jobs for local residents is a top priority.  Projects like ‘Ohana Hope Village can provide training opportunities for new entrants to the construction and renewable energy workforce as apprentice electricians, project  managers, and installers. Not only will those workers have an economic enhancement opportunity in the near term, but they will also be able to contribute to the rebuilding of Lahaina over the coming years, with skill sets focused on promoting resilience and sustainability, as well as the state’s drive to 100% renewable energy by 2045. 

Recognizing the inevitability of future natural disasters, particularly with climate change, the state must be prepared with deployable resources and funds to engage community partners on the ground, where needed. This proactive approach ensures that our neighbors, families and friends won't face the anxiety of uncertain shelter. It's a collective responsibility to be prepared for such situations, as disasters can impact any of us.

Where does my donation go?
100% of all donations made to our non-profit will be used directly to benefit the people affected by natural disasters as they rebuild their lives and communities. We believe in transparency and ensuring that every dollar goes where it's needed most.

What is Ohana Hope Village?

On August 8th, Lahaina, Maui, faced its darkest hour as the deadliest wildfire in U.S. history devastated the community, leaving 11,000 people displaced and over 2,000 buildings destroyed. Today, amidst the ashes, a symbol of hope is rising - ʻOhana Hope Village.

ʻOhana Hope Village provides three years of housing and a sense of community for over 300 people. Project Empower is working with Family Life Center in partnership with multiple other organizations across the community to construct a midterm housing solution. We are contributing all the Village’s electrical and HVAC needs via donations from the public.