On this Blue’Aina trip we got to do something we don’t normally do. We departed Ma’alaea Harbor on board Trilogy V and headed to the south shore of Maui. With a full boat of excited volunteers, everyone was anxious to malama a different part of Maui. The Corporate Sponsor for this trip was RP Signs, supporting the non-profit Imua Family Services. Food was provided by Trilogy Excursions. 

RP Signs is a mainland-based company from North Carolina. The company has been designing and manufacturing interior and exterior signs since 1987. Their mission statement is to; “Strive to develop long-term relationships with our clients by providing unmatched service and expertise. We recognize that the only way to continue those relationships is through a performance that continually meets and exceeds client expectations”. 

Being frequent visitors to Maui they formed a close relationship with the local community and wanted to give back to this beautiful island. Over the years they have offered support and sign donations to Imua Family Services. When CEO Jamie and his wife Leigh Ann heard about the Blue'Aina trips they were eager to get involved and help out. Trilogy's Blue'Aina was happy to work with them to schedule a date that suited their travel plans. 

Imua Family Services works with children and their families to empower them to reach their full potential. In operation since 1947, they serve the islands of Maui, Moloka'i, and Lana'i. In Hawaiian, the word “imua” means to “move forward”. Thus Imua Family Services helps kids move forward through challenges in development, behavior or disability. Among the many programs Imua Family Services offer they also provide a unique week-long overnight camp for 60 children with special needs. The camp provided the kids with opportunities to try new experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Imua Family Services is well known on Maui and the local community was very enthusiastic about getting involved in this Blue'Aina and supporting the non-profit. This trip sold out months in advance.

While enjoying mama Coon’s famous cinnamon rolls we left Ma'alaea Harbor and made our way towards the south shore of Maui with hopes of mooring the boat at Pu’uolai. Pu’uolai is a well-known diving, snorkeling, and fishing spot located next to Little Beach. At this site, there is a lot of fishing line and lead weights that become caught on the reef and left behind. In order to remove as much line as possible Trilogy arranged for a handful of community member SCUBA divers to help out.

In only one hour the divers picked up about 12lbs of fishing line, lead weight, and anchors. This was another successful Blue'Aina and the volunteers left with a feeling of accomplishment. Every Blue'Aina trip gives us a warm feeling inside and we are thankful for all the sponsors, community members, and Trilogy staff that continually help out and make these trips happen. We only have two trips left for 2017. Head over to the Blue'Aina website for details and reserve your spot before they sell out.