Description

Program Summary

Kalani is the number one destination for volunteers on the Big Island of Hawai`i. It is a well-loved, non-profit educational village, yoga, wellness and spiritual retreat center whose worldwide volunteers return to year after year. Famed yoga instructor Shiva Rea calls Kalani "one of the most potent and nurturing retreat centers in the world."

Bordered by tropical jungle and the largest conservation coast in the state, 100+ volunteers assist in the day-to-day operations of this non-profit educational center.

Volunteer abroad in Hawai`i with a program that offers the opportunity to experience life within a vibrant community, enjoy a variety of activities, classes and experiences, and learn and grow while serving our guests and visitors in the spirit of aloha.

Kalani Volunteers are assigned to work 4 shifts per week (30 hours), and have the opportunity to request their preference of maintenance, kitchen, housekeeping or horticulture departments.

Some of the positions are physically strenuous, and sometimes require lifting of 50lbs. or more. All positions require that participants be of sound physical and mental health.

Kalani can sometimes offer a reduced tuition fee for volunteers who are proficient in construction, kitchen work, IT (skilled trades).

Free time is often spent at the pool, the local black-sand beach, or in one of the 50+ weekly classes in yoga, dance, Hawaiian culture, fitness, and meditation.

Kalani volunteers also have the opportunity to enjoy many of the Big Island's world-famous sights, such as the Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, dolphin swims, snorkeling, tide pools, rainforest and waterfall hikes, and more.

Most volunteers comment that living and assisting within the community was the most powerful and rewarding aspect of their Kalani experience. With such a large group of volunteers who work, eat and play together, it is easy to make friends and quickly feel part of the extended family.

Highlights

Kalani's volunteer program is the perfect way to enjoy an extended stay in Hawai`i in a nurturing, rejuvenating, and transformative environment.

Some of the many benefits that our volunteers receive include:

- Housing (shared lodging or camping)
- Three healthy chef-cooked meals a day, with vegetarian and vegan options always available
- Monthly volunteer trips to the Big Island's world-famous sights
- Free access to Kalani's weekly schedule of 50+ activities and classes in 13+ styles of yoga, wellness, modern dance, ecstatic dance, hula, Hawaiian culture, and more
- An extended stay in a transformational place, a healthy, nurturing yoga and spiritual retreat center
- Gorgeous sights and activities nearby including black sand beaches, hot springs, lava hikes, waterfalls, dolphin swims, turtle nesting areas, snorkeling, and much more.
- Oceanside living with an oceanfront lookout point and nearby Kehena Beach
- Full use of Kalani's clothing-optional pool, spa and watsu facilities
- Reduced rates for massage, watsu and other bodywork treatments
- Reduced volunteer rates for many of the week-long workshops held at Kalani
- Community dining and social opportunities
- Weekly volunteer nights, including excursions, movies, parties, karaoke and more

Volunteers also enjoy full use of Kalani's facilities which include:

- Clothing-optional swimming pool
- Two outdoor hot tubs
- Sauna
- Gymnasium
- Two volleyball courts
- Well-stocked art shed
- 'The Lounge' - a peaceful gathering area and reading room for guests and volunteers
- Pool Table
- Ping Pong Table

Qualifications

We seek applicants who are willing to volunteer in the spirit of selfless service.

If you are ready to be part of a thriving community based on serving with aloha, mutual respect and open communication, we'd love to hear from you!

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

CAMPING: 1 month = 1000 USD, 2 months = 1200 USD, 3 months = 1500 USD; LODGING: 2 months = 1600 USD, 3 months = 1800 USD

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• Excursions

Program Fees Include:

Chef-created Meals
Volunteers enjoy a varied diet featuring international cuisines, decadent desserts, fresh fruit and seafood, and full breakfasts. Meals are freshly prepared under the guidance of qualified chefs, and feature locally grown produce. Delicious and varied vegetarian options are offered at every meal, and specific diet requirements are catered for.

Daily Classes and Activities
Kalani offers approximately 50+ scheduled classes and activities each week, including a variety of different yoga practices, dance and Hawaiian cultural classes (e.g. Hula, weaving). Guest workshops often offer free or reduced rates for Kalani volunteers. Volunteers additionally enjoy significantly reduced rates on the many types of massage and bodywork offered.

Facilities
Volunteers enjoy full use of the clothing optional swimming pool, two hot tubs, sauna, sweat lodge and gym. A lounge room, field for parties and bonfires and shared computers with internet access are also available for use

Accommodation
Volunteers have the option of staying in a tent, a shared room or a single occupant A-frame. Upon arrival, volunteers are usually placed in a shared room and then go on a waiting list for an A-frame (if desired). Camping volunteers are required to bring their own tent, and are supplied with a platform and a tarp.

Salary/Pay

N/A

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Volunteers of all ages and nationalities come to Kalani for many reasons, such as: - Enjoying a break from work/study/city life/stress - Learning or deepening a yoga practice - Experiencing nature - Working on self, mind and body - Becoming part of a community - Healing We welcome all in the spirit of aloha and are guided by the Hawaiian tradition of `ohana (extended family), respecting our diversity and sharing in unity.

Age Range

At least 18 years old

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory
• Independent living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 5-10

Scholarships are Available

Partial tuition reductions are considered for qualified applicants with experience in construction, plumbing, woodworking, electrical, food prep, chef, or information technology.

Application Process Involves

• Phone/Video Interview
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 weeks

Kalani's Mission Statement

Kalani's mission is to provide a fun, safe and educational retreat which encourages ALOHA, love for life in each person's own deepest way through participation in abundant nature, culture and wellness experiences.

Year Founded

1978