1

Global Village

Handbook

Habitat for Humanity West

HawaiiKAILUA-KONA, HAWAII

“Building Houses, Building Hope!”

Table of Contents

E Komo Mai!

Welcome to the Big Island! 3About Habitat for Humanity West Hawaii4The Housing Need in Hawaii...................5

Planning Your Global Village Trip:Transportation and Accommodation......6Airport....................................................6Vehicle....................................................6Accommodation......................................6Weather and Climate of the Big Island...7Estimated Driving Times........................8

Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity West HawaiiVolunteer Requirements.........................8Scope of Work........................................8Orientation.............................................9Rules and Safety...................................10

CulturePartner Families & Culture Exchange . .11Recreational Activities..........................13Map of Recreational Activities..............15

Additional ReferencesSample Packing List .............................16Tips From A Past GV Leader.................18

2

Habitat for Humanity West

HawaiiKAILUA-KONA, HAWAII

“Building Houses, Building Hope!”

Mailing Address:P.O. Box 4619

Kailua-Kona, HI 96745

Physical Address:73-5576 Kauhola

St.

About Habitat for Humanity West Hawaii

Habitat for Humanity West

3

E Komo Mai!(Welcome!)

Aloha Global Village team member!

Welcome to the Big Island! We are so grateful that you have chosen to build with us! Our families, staff and volunteers are here to welcome you with open hearts.

Our affiliate is in an exciting time of growth and change, and our Global Village teams are contributing to that “full-steam ahead” mindset. The ripple effect from progress made from team members will be felt by the affiliate, by the families, and by our community long after your flight has departed.

This guidebook will be an excellent resource as you plan your trip. Also, our staff and volunteers are always here to answer all questions and ensure your experience is nothing short of amazing! Have a wonderful time!

Mahalo nui loa! (Thank you very much!)

The HFH West Hawaii ohana (family)

Habitat for Humanity West

Hawaii & ReStore (Kailua, Kona)

Hawaii is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization operated on Christian principles that seeks to put God’s love into action by building homes, communities and hope. Habitat for Humanity West Hawaii is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions. Habitat for Humanity was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.

4

Where do we serve?HFH West Hawaii serves the

entire west coast of the island, from the very top in Hawi all the way down to South Point.

That is a span of 99.6 miles!

We have completed homes in Ocean View, Captain Cook, Kailua-Kona, Kawaihae,

Habitat for Humanity West Hawaii began hosting Global Village teams in January 2012. After 4 amazing teams in 2012, we are preparing to host 6

teams in 2013. In the years to come, we hope to have even more!

Our teams have made a huge impact on our affiliate and our island, from helping us complete a Blitz Build to construct 5 houses in 10 days to

taking on our very first critical home repair.

“Why Are You Building in Hawaii?”: The Housing Need

∙ AIRPORTThere are two major airports here on the Big Island, one in Hilo and one in Kona. You will want to fly into:

∙ VEHICLE FOR YOUR TEAMFor teams between 10-15 people, we highly recommend renting a 15-passenger van. 7 passenger vans are also available, and depending on the number of people in your team, renting that size might make more sense.

∙ ACCOMODATIONDepending on the construction schedule, we will also try to recommend accommodation that is as close to the worksite as possible.

For example, when teams having been working in Waimea, we usually place them in the Kamuela Inn. It is a 30-room bed and breakfast that is 10 minutes away from the worksite.

Sometimes it is not possible and the drive to the worksite might be longer, around 30 or 45

5

TRANSPORTATION AND ACCOMMODATION

KONA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AT KEAHOLE

73-200 Kupipi St.Kailua-Kona, HI 96740-2645(808) 327-9520

Affordable Housing Issue in Hawaii:∙ Hawaii is always one of the ↑ highest ↑ in the country for

cost of living ∙ Hawaii has one of the ↓ lowest ↓ rates for homeownership

nationwide

6,000 families on the waitlist for Public Housing in our county

∙ 3 times the amount of available homes∙ 6-7 years wait before available home∙ 61% are families with children

Anyone who is unfamiliar with Hawaii might be curious as to why Habitat for Humanity is building on the islands. One of our biggest battles is fighting the preconceived notion that there is no need. When you are preparing for your Global Village trip, you might encounter similar questions. Here is some extremely vital information that will help you in those interactions. By sharing this information with others, you are also helping us spread awareness about our housing issue and why Habitat and Global Village teams’ work is making such a

How It Works1. Habitat raises 100% of the money for the materials to build the house2. Select a Partner Family3. Build home with volunteers & the Partner Family 4. Sell the home to the Partner Family – we provide a 20-30 year mortgage, no

interest!5. Place “Silent Second” mortgage to protect equity

The Impact on Family & Community is ENORMOUS!

∙ 375K Average cost of home in West Hawaii → HABITAT HOME $85K

minutes, but the staff here will make every attempt to secure accommodation that decreases driving time as much as possible.

We will always try to find modest, clean housing that fits with the team’s budget!

Here in Hawaii, you will want to prepare for the warmer temperatures, but weather can

certainly vary, depending on the location of your worksite. We have many different regions and climate zones on the big island.

Here are the average temperatures by month for Kona:

You can expect lots of sunshine in Kona with very little rain.

However! You leave Kona and that all can change! Examples of varying weather:

6

WEATHER AND CLIMATE

In Waimea, the town sits at higher elevation and has cooler temperatures. It is usually in the high 60’s or low 70’s. It rains a little every day in Waimea, and it can get windy.

Volcano can be chilly at night, getting down into the high 40’s or low 50’s. (Brrrr..)

The top of Mauna Kea is very cold. In the winter, you will find snow on the summit! (Yes, you read that right. Snow in Hawaii!)

In addition to the required forms sent by Habitat for

7

THE TAKE-AWAYWhen packing, be prepared for a lot of sunshine and a little bit of

everything else! That means mostly shorts and short-sleeved shirts, but it would be wise to pack one or two pairs of long pants, one heavier sweatshirt

or jacket, a rain jacket/poncho, and extra layers!

Getting Around Big Island: Estimated Drive Times

Use Google Maps for place-specific directions, but as a general guideline to plan your trip, use these estimates:

∙ Kona to Waimea (45min – 1 hour)∙ Kona to Hilo (2 hours)∙ Kona to Volcano (2 ½ hours)∙ Waimea to Hilo (1 hour, 15 min)∙ Waimea to Volcano (2 hours)

Volunteering with HFH West Hawaii

Humanity International to participate in a Global Village trip, we require the following for all our volunteers:

□ All volunteers must complete a volunteer form and waiver in advance.

□ All volunteers must take the online safety course. Paper versions will also be available.

□ No persons under the age of 16 allowed on the construction site. □ Absolutely no possession or consumption of alcohol or drugs before,

during, or after work on site.

∙ SCOPE OF WORK FOR GLOBAL VILLAGE TEAMS

You have signed up for a Global Village trip, so naturally, question follows… “What will we be working on?” Glad you asked! HFH West Hawaii is very active in several different projects, and depending on the timing, the team could take part one project or different types of work.

∙ New construction∙ Critical Home Repairs∙ A Brush With Kindness ∙ Community Projects

8

The Take-Away:We ask Global Village teams to come open-minded and not expect one

specific type of work. The work that your team will accomplish will be set corresponding with the current construction schedule. In other words, whatever is highest priority that our affiliate needs to complete at the

time!

Your team will be our greatest asset for that week you are here because you will be completing our most important goals!*

On the Work Site with HFH West Hawaii

ORIENTATION:

The week will begin with an orientation to familiarize your team members with the island, the work that our affiliate has accomplished, and the housing need that motivates us to continue on in our mission. This will be conducted by staff and/or AmeriCorps members.

The next part of the orientation will be on-site, conducted by the Site Supervisor(s). They will explain the scope of work and the projects to be completed for the week.

EACH DAY Upon arrival on-site each day, there will be no work done until the outline for tasks to be completed that day is explained, along with a safety talk pertaining to the tools that will be used. Safety and quality are our absolute number one goals!

9

Should I bring my own tools?

No, you definitely do not need to bring your own tools. Our affiliate’s construction staff (and our trusty trailer) provides all the tools necessary for the week’s work. If you have a favorite tool to work with, you are more than

When Will We Be Working?

A typical workday runs from around 8:30 – 3:30. These are very approximate times, and are adjusted based on team schedule, weather,

site location, and scope of work.

I have very little construction experience!

No worries! We aim to create a learning environment for Global Village teams.Our Site Supervisors are there to demonstrate and teach new skills and how to properly use equipment. We want volunteers to feel comfortable asking

Rules & Safety All site rules, regulations, and safety standards are Habitat for Humanity policy.

1. Respect all volunteers, partner families, contractors, and supervisors on site.

2. Site access, work hours, and safety equipment needed is at the discretion of the Site Supervisor.

3. Do not carry tools up or down ladders. Do not leave tools on the ground.

4. Do not set tools above waist height, as they could fall and potentially injure someone.

Do not step on top 2 steps of ladders. Step ladders are not to be used as extension ladders.

Attire:1. Close-toed shoes must be worn at all times.

2. Ear protection, dust masks, and gloves are available for your use.

3. Safety glasses must be worn while using tools, and while deconstruction is in progress.

4. Hardhats must be worn when working on heights above 6 feet, while someone is working above, or any deconstruction is in progress.

10

On the Work Site with HFH West Hawaii

CULTURE IN HAWAIITeams often spend a fair amount of time with homeowners, neighbors, family, and friends. You will have the opportunity to get to know the people of Hawaii and learn about their lifestyle.

The Hawaiian term ohana means family, and you will experience firsthand the amazing relationships people hold so very important with their

immediate and extended family. Families are also created by the neighborhoods.

The spirit of aloha is alive and well here, so come with an open heart and an open mind. You will learn quite a bit about the Hawaiian culture and traditions. You will also find that people are just as interested in you and where you came from. It is not necessary, but great conversation happens when you bring something or share a story about your background. Share your values and traditions. Show pictures! Play

11

PARTNER FAMILIES & CULTURE EXCHANGE

A couple other things to note about living here in Hawaii…

It is customary here to always remove your shoes before entering a home.

The word kapuna refers to the elderly, and a great deal of respect is given to them.

You will hear Uncle and Aunty quite a bit. This is how you can address

PARTNER FAMILIES! When you meet our partner families and work alongside of them, you will feel like part of our Habitat ohana. We put quality time with our families as the most important component to our Global Village trips. After all, we are all here to help each other and learn from one another. We will work with our partner

a song!

1. Ocean Sports: Whale Watching Cruise A. Sunset Dinner Cruise - $90.00 USD approx. per person

Kama’aina Korner in Kawaihae http://www.hawaiioceansports.com/html/kawaihae.html61-3657 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kawaihae, HI 96743(808) 886-6666Departs around 4:30 p.m., on the cruise for approximately 2 hours

2. Mauna Kea Sunset and StarshowLocation: Visitor’s Center and Summit Arnott’s Lodge and Hiking Adventures http://www.arnottslodge.com/mksg.html(808) 339-0921Price: $160Background Info: Hawaii is Earth's connecting point to the rest of the Universe.  The summit of Mauna Kea on the Island of Hawaii hosts the world's largest astronomical observatory, with telescopes operated by astronomers from eleven countries. The combined light-gathering power of the telescopes on Mauna Kea is fifteen times greater than that of the Palomar telescope in California -- for many years the world's largest -- and sixty times greater than that of the Hubble Space Telescope.(http://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/mko/about_maunakea.htm)

3. Paina – Potluck styleCan be held at the nearby beach and park, Hapuna or Spencer, or on the worksiteThis is recommended in lieu of a lu’au. Usually, partner families will participate and teach Hawaiian culture (Hawaiian stamping, hula, etc.)

12

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

The Big Island is home to an active volcano, the world’s tallest mountain (really!), the highest observatory in the world, beaches, jungles, and valleys. We encourage teams to explore the island during their R&R time and on the weekends. We can work with teams to plan their itineraries accordingly! Here is a list of activities past teams have participated in:

4. Honaka’a People’s Theater http://www.honokaapeople.com/index.htmlLocation: Honaka’a Movie Tickets: $6 The theater not only shows current movies, it also provides  a stage, forum and gathering place for the community hosting local theater groups, political debates and support for many worthy causes both local and global in impact.This might be perfect for an evening activity after a full day of working. You will also have the chance to explore the quaint town of Honaka’a while you are there, and visit the Waipio Valley Lookout

5. Pololu Valley Hike – free!Park your car in the small parking lot that is literally at the end of the road and treat yourself to an inspiring view of the verdant cliffs of Pololu Valley and the dramatic northeastern coastline. Horses graze on the hillside as you look out at the small island outcroppings sitting in the waters offshore and the lovely black sand beach at the mouth of the valley. You can take a steep hike down to the valley floor and the black sand beach, although swimming is discouraged because of strong currents. 

6. Hawaiian Valleys and Waterfalls Custom – Waipio, or Hamakua Coast (Akaka Falls, etc.) Our Valleys and Waterfalls tour showcases our amazing Hamakua Heritage Coastal region with its diverse scenery from 400ft waterfalls to its bridges crossing deep cleft valleys each with entirely different vegetation patterns in wild variety.75.00/person - Regular price

7. Kohala Zipline Canopy TourPerched among the towering trees of Halawa, and nestled on Hawaii's Big Island, this exciting course features five elevated suspension bridges, soaring aerial platforms, and a total of nine thrilling ziplines (the last of which is an unbelievable, lengthy tandem line!). Rising up to its loftiest point of140 feet high in the sky, and having the advantage of small groups (keeping with a ratio of no more than 4 participants to every 1 guide), it is a tour unmatched in enjoyment and quality! $160/ person

8. Evening at Kahua RanchBuffet BBQ Dinner, line dancing, smores

13

“Where are these activities located on the island?”

Refer to page 15 to see the corresponding numbers on a map of

http://www.kahuaranch.com/

9. Volcano National Park While a trip to the Volcano is not impossible, it is farther away and will take some planning. It is 87 miles away, about a 2 hour drive. There are many great hikes in the park, along with lava tubes, and the Jaggar Museum Outlook is the perfect place to see the orange glow by nighttime.$10 per vehicle to get into the park

14

15

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

For the Work Site:□ Sturdy closed toe shoes – tennis shoes are fine (no sandals!)□ Old clothing that can get dirty and stained – shorts are fine for the

jobsite□ Work gloves□ Hat or bandanna for sun protection□ Water bottle is imperative for re-filling from 5gal jugs. (Environmentally speaking we prefer not to use plastic disposable one-use water bottles. Recycling is a priority.)□ Day pack or small bag □ Raincoat or poncho that can get dirty and stained□ Small zip-lock bag with your own Band-Aids, ointment, sunscreen etc.

For Evening and Other Activities:□ Comfortable shoes & sandals for walking/hiking □ Casual clothing – for warm daytime as well as cool evenings□ Casual nice clothes for going out to dinner a couple times, sun dress

no heels.

If Your Team Is Hiking or Camping:□ Sleeping bag & pad□ Small Tent

□ Flashlight & headlamps are great, for lava tube explorations and nighttime bathroom runs.

Other Items :□ Ear plugs

16

SAMPLE PACKING LIST

□ Sunglasses

□ Sunscreen and lotion

□ Toiletries

□ Swim suit, sandals, flip-flops, hiking footwear for lava hikes (closed-toed!)

Optional: □ Personal Work Gloves

□ Eye protection (Sunglasses)

□ Beach towel can double as blanket□ Camera, extra batteries □ Binoculars □ Insect repellent□ Alarm clock□ Reading and writing materials/journals□ Photos to share with your new friends

17

From A Past Global Village Leader, Bob Valenta

Hot Tips on Ways to be Cool when Habitat-ing and Traveling in Hawaii

• You will need mostly work clothes. Your other activities are still quite casual. Do not let the weather keep you from doing an activity just because you do not have the proper clothes. Be prepared for hot days and cool mornings. Temperatures can range from high 50’s to mid 80’s.• Think "layers" ... a shirt, and a sweatshirt or lightweight jacket over that. For the worksite all clothing should be suitable for work, i.e. getting dirty, splattered with paint, etc.• Jewelry – It is recommended that you not wear jewelry at the work site, especially earrings or necklaces that dangle. Please do not bring anything of value to wear at other times because security for it cannot be guaranteed.• Day pack or small bag - It will be very helpful if you have a simple day pack or bag to put your clothing in as you take them on and off during the day. You can also use that bag for your usual "purse" items and camera. In other words, figure out a way to keep it all together in one place.• Use your shampoo as body soap to avoid bringing along a separate item• Ensure all of your medications are clearly labeled. • Binoculars – Some people enjoy having them, but like cameras, they are expensive and a hassle to keep track of. • Remember that your carry-on cannot contain certain items (aerosol containers, large pocketknife, metal nail file, tools of any kind) Check the TSA guidelines before packing if you don’t fly often.• If you are extending your trip in Hawai’i and think you might do some shopping, pack lightly or try to keep your luggage to one piece. Excess luggage is usually quite expensive. If you only bring one piece, you might want to pack a light-weight roll-up duffel to use as your second piece on the way home. • Travel light, but do bring enough work clothes for at least a week (you COULD get dirty enough that you will want to change work clothes each day). • Pack leaky items (shampoo, lotions) in zip lock bags - and tighten the cap right before you put them in.• Bring your sense of humor and a good story about yourself to share. • Check the packing list one more time before you leave!

18

PRO TIP Have a carry-on with whatever you will need for 24 hours after arriving in Hawaii; just in case your baggage does not arrive with you