About the Friends
Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park (FHVNP) is a 501(c)(3)non-profit organization with members worldwide who have experienced the wonder and power of the park’s living volcanoes.
As the Official Fundraising Partner to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, the Friends operate under a formal Philanthropic Agreement with the National Park Service.
We continue to grow our long-standing relationship with the Park by offering support and stewardship, enhancing visitor educational and interpretive experiences, supporting and encouraging resource protection, and communicating the purpose and values of the park through fundraising and other activities.
We are the Official Philanthropic Fundraising Partner to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Our Mission
‘Ike honua
Value of place
We support the National Park Service in the protection, preservation, and interpretation of the natural and cultural resources at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park for the enjoyment of current and future generations.
Our Vision
Ka ‘ea o ka ‘aina
The life of the land
We envision a Park with a cultural and natural native ecosystem where all visitors experience a profound connection to the unique physical and spiritual beauty of the Island of Hawai‘i.
Our Values
‘Ike pono
Quality
We strive for excellence in our support of the Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Quality in all our efforts is our fundamental objective.
Hana laulima
Stewardship
We maintain an enduring commitment to preserve, conserve, restore, and care for our natural resources and cultural heritage for future generations.
‘Imi na‘auao
Education
We provide experiential education for the people of Hawai‘i and visitors through transformative experiences that connect people to nature and culture.
Our Impact
For nearly 30 years since its origins, the Friends have helped protect our magnificent National Park while making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
3.5M+
INVASIVE SPECIES REMOVED
1.5M+
NATIVE SEEDS COLLECTED
90K lbs.+
OF TRASH & DEBRIS REMOVED
825+
LOCAL HAWAII YOUTH TRAINED
100K+
VOLUNTEER HOURS CONTRIBUTED
Countless
PEOPLE INSPIRED WORLDWIDE
3K Miles+
OF TRAILS REHABILITATED
$10M+
FUNDS RAISED SINCE 1997
Our Partners
Our History
Founded January 13, 1997, FHVNP celebrates 29 years of supporting Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
1995
A dedicated group of volunteers cleared approximately 10 acres of the ranch property, which had been developed in the 1940s by businessman and horticulturalist Herbert C. Shipman, a descendant of one of Hawai‘i‘s oldest missionary families. Through the help of our founding members, the ‘Ainahou Ranch House and its grounds were listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From this effort, “The Friends of ‘Ainahou” was formed, with articles of incorporation and bylaws officially adopted in 1997.
1997Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park was originally founded as Na Hoaloha ‘Ainahou (“The Friends of ‘Ainahou”). ‘Ainahou is a historic ranch located within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
2002As our mission and focus expanded beyond ‘Ainahou, we changed names to become the “Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park” in 2002.
TodayToday, volunteers continue to play a major role in the upkeep of the ‘Ainahou Ranch House and Gardens. In addition, ‘Ainahou provides a site for study and interpretation of the Hawaiian environment and culture, and is a safe haven for a small flock of nēnē, Hawai‘i’s endangered native goose.
Links & Resources
News & Events
Stay informed about current events and news.
Join the Friends
Support our mission and sign up for a membership!
Public Disclosure
View or download our Form 990 public disclosure.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park needs your help!
Help protect this national treasure for generations to come with your tax-deductible donation. Your contribution directly supports our Park!