How We Are Shaping Generations

Rooted in Aloha: The History of the Lānaʻi Youth Center

Nestled in the heart of Lānaʻi City, the Lānaʻi Youth Center has long been a space where young people can find connection, creativity, and support. What started as a modest idea has grown into a vibrant community hub—one that continues to evolve with the needs of our island’s youth.

Humble Beginnings

The Lānaʻi Youth Center was founded with a simple yet powerful vision: to provide a safe, supportive space for youth to gather, learn, and grow. In its early days, the center operated out of a small, shared space. With limited resources but abundant heart, dedicated staff and volunteers offered after-school programs, cultural activities, and leadership opportunities for the island’s keiki.

Over time, the Center became a beloved second home for generations of Lānaʻi youth—where homework got done, friendships formed, and values like kuleana (responsibility), lōkahi (unity), and aloha were put into practice every day.

Growing with the Community

As Lānaʻi changed, so did the needs of its youth. Recognizing this, the community came together to dream bigger. With input from families, local leaders, and the youth themselves, plans were made to expand and renovate the Youth Center into a modern, welcoming facility.

That dream came to life in 2025, when the Lānaʻi Youth Center reopened its doors in a beautifully renovated space on Fifth Street—right next to the island’s first-ever skatepark. Funded through a combination of county support and local advocacy, the upgraded center now features a computer lab, kitchen and dining space, music and fitness rooms, and a flexible lounge area for everything from studying to socializing.

A Hub for the Future

More than just a building, the Lānaʻi Youth Center continues to be a place where the future is shaped—one young person at a time. Today, the center offers a wide range of programs, from cultural workshops and environmental education to sports, music, and mentorship.

And through it all, the mission remains the same: to empower Lānaʻi’s youth with the tools, confidence, and community they need to thrive.

Join the Story

Whether you’re a parent, volunteer, or simply someone who believes in the power of youth, the Lānaʻi Youth Center invites you to be part of its story. Follow us on social media, join an upcoming event, or just stop by and say aloha. Together, we’re building a stronger future—right here at home.