From hosts to Hale Halawai —Strengthening Kauaʻi’s community through aloha and advocacy

(Photos courtesy of Livtopia Photos)

KAUAʻI, HI- On Friday, October 24th, Turo hosted a Kauaʻi Host Advocacy Dinner at Hale Līhuʻe, bringing together 20 hosts for thoughtful conversations about advocacy, leadership, and community engagement.  The gathering highlighted how we can continue to uplift one another and communities through the Turo platform. 

The Turo Hawaiʻi team was also honored to visit Hale Halawai ʻOhana O Hanalei, a cherished gathering place that has served as the heart of Hanalei for families, cultural events, and educational programs. During the Saturday Farmers Market, Turo presented its community sponsorship to Hale Halawai, supporting ongoing efforts to nurture connection, resilience, and the care of this important gathering place.

Turo’s sponsorship directly supports the repaving and drainage improvements of the parking lot where the Saturday Farmers Market is held. These critical repairs will restore accessibility after months of heavy rain and flooding had left the area uneven and unsafe for vendors and visitors. The improvements are essential in sustaining Hale Halawai’s keiki programs and weekly market, two cornerstones of the center’s service to North Shore Kauaʻi. Each year, more than 200 children and families take part in afterschool and summer programs, while the market brings together over 40 local farmers and up to 1,000 community members every week.

“Turo’s generous contribution helps us care for the gathering place of our community – keeping Hale Halawai ʻOhana O Hanalei’s grounds safe and welcoming for everyone, from keiki to kūpuna, and supporting the weekly farmers market and daily gatherings that bring our community together,” said Kaylee Kim, Executive Director of Hale Halawai ʻOhana O Hanalei.  

Davin Aoyagi, Senior Government Relations Manager for Turo, shared how this partnership reflects Turo’s broader mission, “This partnership is important for us because it supports a foundation for connection, small business, and opportunity. By helping restore access to the farmers market and community space, we’re supporting the local entrepreneurs, families and cultural stewards who make Kauaʻi thrive. At Turo, we believe mobility should empower people and strengthen communities, and we’re grateful to be part of this effort.”

The check presentation reflected a shared dedication to community well-being and the preservation of spaces that bring people together.  Hale Halawai’s work continues to embody the spirit of ʻohana and aloha, creating a place where culture, care, and connection thrive. Turo is deeply grateful to the Hale Halawai ʻOhana O Hanalei team for their hospitality and for the invaluable role they play in strengthening the North Shore community.