Lahaina Strong launches inaugural Mākeke: a gathering for healing, resources and resilience

Lahaina Strong, in partnership with Maui Behavioral Health Resources and hosted by Maui Land & Pine, welcomes the inaugural Lahaina Strong Mākeke, happening on Saturday, June 14 from 4 to 8 p.m. at 1000 Kapalua Drive in West Maui.

The Mākeke is a vibrant community event designed to cultivate healing, provide vital resources, and uplift the spirit of Lahaina. This marks the first in a series of planned gatherings dedicated to the town’s recovery.

The Lahaina Strong Mākeke will offer a diverse array of experiences for all ages, including:

• Local Businesses & Shopping: Opportunity to support West Maui entrepreneurs.
• Food & Live Music: A festive atmosphere for community connection.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Face painting, lei making, stress ball making, magician, balloon making, and bounce castles.
• Crucial Resource Booths: A direct avenue for Lahaina families to connect with organizations offering essential support, and for visitors to meet these impactful groups face-to-face.

“More than just an event, the Lahaina Strong Mākeke is a powerful embodiment of ‘pilina’ (connection) – strengthening bonds and supporting the long-term recovery of our community,” organizers said.

“We anticipate a beautiful mix of locals reconnecting and visitors discovering the incredible organizations dedicated to Lahaina’s resurgence. For Lahaina families, it’s a vital opportunity to access direct help; for visitors, it’s a chance to witness the resilience firsthand and learn how to contribute through donations, volunteering time, or simply spreading awareness of these crucial efforts,” according to an event announcement.

Dr. Lisa Ponichtera from Maui Behavioral Health Resources underscored the therapeutic role of such gatherings saying, “Events like the Mākeke are a key to supporting the mental health of our recovering Lahaina community. We have seen people, especially our kupuna, come out for the first time to events like these. While trauma happens to the individual, research findings indicate that healing after a disaster occurs as a community.”

“At Lahaina Strong, we’ve conducted outreach and assessments to truly understand our community’s healing and recovery journey,” said Courtney Lazo, Lead Organizer for Lahaina Strong and Community Services Director. She explained the community’s call to action saying, “A resounding request was for more gatherings and events, along with opportunities for our local businesses to get back on their feet. The Mākeke is our direct response—a perfect way for businesses to generate income to support their ‘ohana and rebuild, while creating community connection through food, music, and shared experiences.”