Hawaiian Community Assets, Inc.

Hawaiian Community Assets, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Hawaii, focused on fostering economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income families, with a special emphasis on Native Hawaiians.

Overview

Established in 2000, the organization is dedicated to building the capacity of these communities to achieve and sustain economic self-sufficiency. Hawaiian Community Assets operates under the philosophy of Kahua Waiwai, which emphasizes affordable housing, culturally-relevant financial education, and asset-building programs.

Mission

The mission of Hawaiian Community Assets is centered around creating a stable economic environment that supports the cultural and spiritual values of Native Hawaiian families. By focusing on housing support services and financial education, the organization aims to enhance economic stability for generations to come.

Activities

Hawaiian Community Assets offers financial education workshops and provides grants and loans to assist local residents in building wealth. The organization operates across four islands—Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i, O‘ahu, and Maui—reaching a wide audience with its services.

Partnerships

Hawaiian Community Assets is closely linked with Hawai‘i Community Lending (HCL), its sister company and a U.S. Treasury-certified community development financial institution. HCL provides clients with access to mortgage financing and innovative financial products tailored to the needs of low- and moderate-income communities.

Impact

Hawaiian Community Assets has had a significant impact on the communities it serves:

• Affordable Homes: Over 7,346 children and adults have benefited from being placed in affordable homes.
• Financial Education: More than 22,287 residents have received financial education to improve their economic well-being.
• Affordable Housing Support: The organization has facilitated access to over $165 million in support for affordable housing initiatives in underserved communities.

Certification and Funding

Hawaiian Community Assets is certified as a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) housing counseling agency and financial education provider. Funding for their initiatives includes grants from programs like the Wells Fargo Keeping People Housed initiative, channelled through partners such as the Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC).

Financial Overview

The organization relies heavily on contributions, which make up a significant portion of its revenue. As of recent financial reports, Hawaiian Community Assets held total assets worth approximately $4.9 million and reported liabilities of around $1.7 million[2].

Leadership

Chelsie Evans serves as the Executive Director of Hawaiian Community Assets, bringing extensive experience in community development and leadership roles within Hawaii.