The Custodio ʻOhana’s Fundraiser

Born and raised in Honolulu, HI, I have had multiple exposures to hula, from observing to participating in hālau and hui. I moved to the mainland in 2001, and I joined the local hui and eventually the halau associated with it. However, hula had taken a back seat when I pursued my career as a veterinarian. But hula and a stronger connection to home called again in 2016. That was when I found Ohana Dance Group.

The purpose of Ohana Dance Group and Kūhai Hālau O Kaponookalani Pā ʻŌlapa Kahiko is to perpetuate the Hawaiian culture through outreach activities. We share tradition, history, and culture through our teaching and performances.

Within Kūhai Hālau O Kaponookalani Pā ʻŌlapa Kahiko and the non-profit, Ohana Dance Group, I have become a leader, a dancer, a board member, and a family member.  Through hālau, I have been reconnecting with and learning more about my Hawaiian heritage. It has helped keep me rooted in the culture and reinforced everything my parents and grandparents have taught me. It heals my mind, body, and soul and fills me with aloha. 

Being part of the hālau has also given my husband and children the chance to experience the culture and connection to the Hawaiian heritage and aloha. My husband plays a huge supportive role while learning the culture and protocols associated with the hālau. My children have had the opportunity to grow up in the hālau. My son is currently in the keiki class, while my daughter is starting to participate as well.

I joined the Kūhai Hālau ʻohana at the time to reconnect and start dancing again. At the time, it didn't occur to me how much being part of a traditional hālau would enrich not only my life and my family's, but also the lives of the families and friends in the community. As a member of the hālau and the non-profit, I wish to continue supporting our mission. And you can help too! Any little bit helps keep tuition costs low for anyone who wishes to join our community and learn the culture and traditions. Your donation helps pay the bills, enables new learning opportunities, provides new costuming for performances, and supports our youth through education and scholarships. Any little bit goes a long way with sharing your aloha with the community and the world.

Mahalo for your time!