Twenty-three residents were recognized as 2026 Volunteer Heroes for their service to community nonprofit organizations, as Mayor Richard Bissen proclaimed April 19-25, 2026, as Volunteer Week in Maui County.
The recognition highlights the important role volunteers play in supporting local nonprofits and strengthening the community. The ceremony took place at the Kalana O Maui building in Wailuku.
“This is a chance to recognize the incredible time, heart and talent our volunteers give to support nonprofits across Maui County,” Mayor Bissen said during the event. “These organizations are doing vital work every day – from providing food and shelter, protecting our watershed and natural resources, supporting youth and uplifting those in need.”
HandsOn Maui, part of the County of Maui Department of Human Concerns Volunteer Center, organizes this annual celebration. Volunteers were nominated by nonprofit organizations for their significant impact and received certificates of recognition from the county.
“We are very pleased to recognize these compassionate, hardworking individuals,” said Wendy Stebbins, Volunteer Center coordinator. “Maui County is stronger and more connected because of these volunteers and the nonprofits they help serve.”
The honored volunteers serve a range of organizations including Kula Community Watershed Alliance, Manaʻo Radio, Pacific Cancer Foundation, Nā Kiaʻi O Maui, Nā Hoaloha, Pacific Whale Foundation, ParaGenius Foundation, Maui Rescue Mission, Kamehameha Schools Maui, Friends of Haleakalā National Park, Hale Kau Kau, What Makes You Feel Beautiful Foundation (WMYFB), Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB), Pukalani Nazarene Compassion Village (PNCV), Organ Transplant Maui (OTM), Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC), Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center (HNVAC), Hospice Maui Inc., Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset (RCLS) and Best Buddies International.
For more information about volunteer opportunities or this year’s honorees visit www.mauicounty.gov/humanconcerns.
