What is Kupu and what does it mean?
Kupu is a local nonprofit 501c3, founded in 2007. The word kupu, in Hawaiian means, “to sprout, grow, germinate, or increase.” Similarly, the kupukupu fern is one of the first plants to emerge after a destructive lava flow. Kupu administers programs in the fields of conservation and sustainability that help young adults, like the kupukupu fern, emerge as strong leaders of a greener future.
What is Kupu’s mission?
To empower youth to serve their communities through character building, service learning, and environmental stewardship opportunities that encourage integrity (pono) with God (Ke Akua), self and others.
How can I get involved with Kupu?
You can get involved on various levels and in different ways! To learn more, please go to Support Kupu.
What kinds of programs do you offer, and how do I apply?
Kupu offers several programs that provide individuals with educational experiences, job and leadership training, personal development, and the opportunity to steward Hawai`i’s precious resources and environment. Kupu has four primary programs: the Hawai`i Youth Conservation Corps (HYCC), Rewarding Internships for Sustainable Employment (RISE), CommunityU, and E2U. To learn more about each program and to apply online, please go to Kupu Program.
What are the benefits in applying for Kupu’s programs?
Not only do participants have the opportunity to make a positive difference in their community, but through partnerships with over 80 organizations across Hawai`i, members/interns experience or gain invaluable benefits such as:
• Hands-on education
• New job skills, including different trainings or certifications
• Educational awards
• Living allowances or decent wages
• Professional/career connections
• Leadership and teamwork skills
• Cultural knowledge and understanding
• College credit
•GED/CBASE high school diploma
Who funds Kupu?
Kupu is primarily grant-funded by Federal, State, and private agencies, but also relies on individual donations to keep the programs running. See list of our sponsors
What is Ho`āhu?
Ho‘āhu is the name of Kupu’s capital campaign to raise support for the Kupu Green Job Training Center, a new facility that will equip youth with the skills and heart to lead our state towards a more sustainable future and build partnerships that can serve as a global model of responsible stewardship and a thriving community. Learn here to find out more about Ho`āhu.
What does HYCC mean, and how is it organized?
HYCC stands for the Hawai`i Youth Conservation Corps. It is an umbrella program that includes multiple sub-programs – including the Gateway, Frontiers, Extended Internship, and Educational Awards Service programs.
I do not live in Hawai`i – am I able to participate in the HYCC programs?
We welcome all applicants who are U.S Citizens, U.S Nationals, or Permanent Resident Aliens, that are able to secure their own housing and transportation for the duration of the programs.
Who can apply to the Gateway Program?
There are two positions available through the Gateway Program: member or team leader. To become a member, you must be at least 17 years of age by the start of the program. To become a team leader, you must be at least 21 years of age and must possess a high school diploma or GED as well as a driver’s license.
Can I do the Gateway Program twice?
Repeating the Gateway Program is typically not allowed (only under special circumstances). If you have participated as a Gateway member once before, and would like to join HYCC again, you may apply to the Frontiers Program or Extended Internship Program instead.
So what does this program cost?
This is an absolutely free program! All program costs such as training, program transportation*, camping, and equipment costs are covered. There is a $200 deposit if you are accepted as a summer member. This check will be shredded upon completion of the program and will only be cashed if you drop out or are dismissed.
*Program transportation includes travel to Oahu for training, ground transportation on-island from the meeting location to the work site, and possible travel to Kaho`olawe for a service trip. It does NOT include travel to Hawai`i, nor does it include housing during non-program time (nights where teams are not camping and weekends).
Can I earn money and college credits while participating?
Members and leaders receive a $1,175 educational award upon successful completion of the program and there is an option of applying for three college credits from the University of Hawai`i at Manoa. Team leaders further receive living allowances totaling up to $4,000 (broken out over eight weeks, subject to taxes).
What is a Gateway Program team leader?
If you are interested in education, the outdoors, conservation, leadership, or youth development, this could be a fantastic experience and career-builder for you! As a team leader, you will be responsible for a team of five-six members, helping to facilitate their learning at different sites, coordinating logistics, and working alongside them completing work projects. Team leaders receive training by the program which can benefit you in many professional areas of life. This program can assist you in your professional pursuits and give you a chance to give back to Hawai`i and make a difference in young adults’ lives. Team leaders must be at least 21 years of age (by the start of the program) and have a driver’s license and preferably have a background in education, conservation, or youth work.
Note: all team leader applicants are subject to drug testing, driving abstract reviews, and background checks.
Who can apply to the Frontiers Program?
The Frontiers Program is designed for individuals who have participated in the Gateway Program during a previous summer.
What is the difference between the Gateway and Frontiers Program?
The Frontiers program differs from the Gateway Program in 1) the application process, 2) the work environment, and 3) the benefits.
1) Application process: In the Frontiers Program, applicants are able to request certain work sites, agencies, or environmental issues/activities that they are most interested in working with. Based on the individual’s interests, their application is sent out to host sites that are the best match*. The host sites are then responsible for the interview process and final selection(s).**
*There is no guarantee that you will be selected for a position, regardless of interests or agencies specified
**Kupu is not involved in making selections, however we will notify you of your status once all host sites have made their final decisions.
2) Work environment: In the Frontiers Program, interns typically work individually, at a single site for the entire summer. Rather than working on a team as in the Gateway Program, members are mentored by a site manager in a one-on-one setting, although there may be additional Frontiers members also working at the site. Interns work with one agency for the duration of the program, meaning they will most likely remain at one location. Frontiers members also do not participate in the training week (Gateway only), nor do they travel to Kahoolawe (Gateway only).
3) Benefits: In addition to an educational award of $1,175 Frontiers members also receive a living allowance of $1,000. Members also have the option to apply for three college credits (as in the Gateway Program).
Who can apply to the Extended Internship Program?
To participate in the Extended Internship Program, applicants must be at least 17 years of age, and possess a high school diploma or GED.
How is the Extended Internship Program different from the Gateway Program and Frontiers Program?
The Extended Internship Program is a longer, more intensive version of the Frontiers Program, in which members work with a single agency, or host site for 11 months (1700 hours). The application process and work environment are modeled after the Frontiers Program. Extended Internship members also receive a much larger educational award ($5,550) and living allowance (approximately $1,300 each month, before taxes).
What will I gain from the RISE Internship experience?
The RISE internship is designed to provide interns with the opportunity to:
• Gain a network of perspective employers and supportive professional mentors;
• Engage in a highly-regarded opportunity to work with and among subject-matter leaders in the State;
• Make a real contribution to sustainability-related work;
• Gain transferrable skill sets that will be useful for any job;
• Gain broad awareness for local sustainability issues and solutions in the State; and
• Engage in a work opportunity that leads to long-term employment in a strong career path.
As an international student currently enrolled at a school in Hawai`i. May I apply for a RISE Internship?
YES. International students may apply for a RISE Internship so long as they have all current and proper paperwork to be studying in the U.S.
Are community college students eligible to apply for RISE Internships?
YES. Dedicated and enthusiastic community college students are encouraged to apply.
Are RISE Interns able to earn college credits for their internship?
College credits may be available for interns who are interested. If you are selected to be a RISE Intern then after receiving your offer then you, your college advisor, and the RISE Coordinator will collaborate to try to make the internship worth 3 college credits.
What will my schedule be like as a RISE Intern?
Most RISE positions offered through Kupu are 15-hours/week, which will need to be during normal state operating hours (Monday-Friday, 8-4:30). RISE applicants will need to have at least 15 hours available during these times during the entire internship period.
Is there an age requirement to participate in the RISE Program?
NO! Kupu does not discriminate based on age. Due to funding restrictions, the RISE Program is only available to college students and recent college graduates.
The application requires a writing sample. Is there a subject matter that the writing should be on?
The only requirement for the writing sample is that it be between 3-7 pages in length and (of course) that it be your own original work. Other than that– it’s up to you! It is beneficial if the topic relates to the position and demonstrates your knowledge in the subject matter relating to the position, however it’s not required. You’ll want to submit anything that showcases that you communicate well through writing. This is the usual protocol for whenever a writing sample is requested for a job application and a subject matter is not specified.
May I apply for more than one position during the same application period?
Applicants are encouraged to apply only to the position with the subject matter that is of the most interest and that the candidate has the most experience in. However, if you’re interested in and qualified for more than one position, you may explain which positions are of interest and qualifying which position is your first and second choice in the cover letter of your application. You should also be prepared to further justify your interest if selected for an interview.
What if I have more questions?
Any other questions regarding the RISE Program or positions may be addressed to: RISE@kupuhawaii.org
How does E²U relate to the Hawai`i Energy Study?
Kupu is a partner in the Hawai`i Energy Study, a first of its kind assessment of Hawai`i energy consumption and audit for energy conservation and best practices recommendations. We are Blue Planet Foundation, Kupu Hawai`i, and Kanu Hawai`i, three Hawai`i-based nonprofits dedicated to changing our communities for the better. This study is an initiative supported by the City and County of Honolulu, and made possible by generous assistance from organizations like Hawai`i Energy, HECO, and the EPA.
Become a trainer – Certified Energy Auditors can apply to be trainers for E²U programs. E²U members can be potential apprentices learning important energy and water conservation techniques through your mentorship. To send a proposal and quote to become a trainer please contact us at (808) 735-1221 ext. 1015.
What will I gain from the E2U program experience?
The E²U Program is designed to provide members with the opportunity to:
• Make a real contribution to sustainability-related work
• Learn useful skills relevant to Hawai`i’s green job sector, such as energy auditing
• Learn more about conservation, and energy issues facing Hawai`i
• Create professional networking
• Gain transferrable skill sets that will be useful for any job
• Gain hands-on career experience in sustainability sector
• Work alongside premiere energy conservationists
• Learn about water conservation and sustainability practices
• Gain broad awareness for local sustainability issues and solutions in Hawai`i
• Paid position employment
• Participate in vocational training aimed at latest energy auditing basic techniques, including: Lighting – Plug load – Renewable energy – Temperature
I am not a high school graduate. May I apply for an E²U program position?
YES. All eligible 16-24 year olds may apply for a E²U program position so long as they have a sincere interest in energy conservation and green job training opportunities, and have all current and proper paperwork to be working in the U.S.
Are E²U participants able to earn college credits for their internship?
Not necessarily, E²U members can earn paid wage for their completion of energy audits.
What will my schedule be like as an E²U participant?
Most E²U positions offered through Kupu will consist of a 4-8 hour introduction to energy auditing orientation, a weeklong energy assessment/auditing training (Monday-Friday, 8-5), and 4-19 hour/per/week commitments to issue energy audits with some hours falling on weekends. Members will need to have at least 8 hours available during these times throughout the entire program.
Is an automobile required for the program?
The members will be responsible for their own transportation to training locations and staging point(s). Transportation will be provided from staging point(s) to home energy audit locations and back to staging area. Currently, staging area is in Kaka’ako and is accessible by TheBus.
Is there an age requirement to participate in the E²U Program?
YES! Due to funding restrictions, E²U member assessors are preferred to be 16-24 years old and the Field Supervisor is preferred to be 21 years or older.
The application requires a cover letter or writing sample. Should I be writing on a particular subject?
The only requirement for the cover letter or writing sample is that it be between 1-3 pages in length and (of course) that it be your own original work. Other than that– it’s up to you! It is beneficial if the information relates to the position and demonstrates your knowledge in the subject matter relating to the position, however it’s not required. You’ll want to submit anything that showcases that you can communicate through writing. This is the usual protocol for whenever a writing sample is requested for a job application and a subject matter is not specified.
I’d like to participate in E²U while continuing my HYCC program commitments. Is this an option?
Applicants are encouraged to apply to the E²U Program assuming they can continue to fulfill their responsibilities and commitments with HYCC. The E²U Program would qualify as a second job. If you’re interested in and qualified for E²U Program participation, please explain how you plan to balance your HYCC commitments while participating in E²U.
How do I apply?
Please visit Apply Now. Please read through the position description, and scroll down for application instructions. E²U will be accepting applications until further notice.
Are these positions paid?
Yes, those who are brought onto E²U will earn a paid hourly wage for their completion of energy audits, following a thorough orientation and training.
Is there a cost to the program?
No, E²U program is free to all members that complete the program.
What Islands have E²U program positions?
Only Oahu currently has E²U program positions available. Its staging area is based in Kaka’ako and is only open to young adults who have housing and transportation on Oahu.
Do you provide housing and transportation?
Housing is not provided. Ground transportation is provided during working hours and for home energy audits; however, E²U program members must arrange for their own transportation to and from the staging area (usually – Kupu’s Kewalo Basin facility) as scheduled.
Do you provide daily meals?
E²U members must bring their own lunch every day unless noted by an open lunch hour on their schedules.
If I applied to other Kupu programs before, can I apply again?
Yes, we encourage those to reapply if they were not selected the first time they applied.
Are there other volunteer opportunities?
Kupu offers volunteer opportunities periodically; please call or email us at info@kupuhawaii.org to learn more.
May I get a classroom visit or a speaker to come to my school/program/agency?
Yes, please call the Kupu office at (808) 735-1221 ext. 1015 to schedule a class visit.
What if I have more questions?
Yes, Please visit us at our website, www.kupuhawaii.org or contact us directly at (808) 735-1221 ext. 1015
How do I apply?
Please visit Apply Now. CommunityU accepts applications year round.
What will I gain from this experience?
• An opportunity to get involved and make a difference for Hawai`i
• A challenge to develop your leadership and teamwork skills
• An opportunity to learn useful skills relevant to Hawai`i’s green sector, such as solar panel installation or energy auditing
• An opportunity to work alongside premiere conservationists
• A chance to gain work experience
• A chance to learn more about conservation and energy issues facing Hawai`i
• An opportunity to work in and preserve pristine places throughout Hawai`i
Meaningful friendships and mentors
• Fulfillment of the work experience component of the Clinical Competency Based High School Diploma Program (C-BASE)
Are these internships paid?
This is an unpaid internship, however there are promotional opportunities for positions that are paid.
Is there a cost to the program?
No, CommunityU is free to all participants.
Is CommunityU on all of the islands?
No, CommunityU is based in Kaka’ako and is only open to young adults who have housing and transportation on Oahu.
Do you provide housing and transportation?
Housing is not provided. Ground transportation is provided during working hours and for program related activities; however, CommunityU members must arrange for their own transportation to and from Kupu’s Kewalo Basin facility.
Do you provide daily meals?
Members must bring their own lunch every day. CommunityU only provides meals for program-related camping trips.
If I applied before, can I apply again?
Yes, we encourage those to reapply if they were not selected the first time they applied.
Are there other volunteer opportunities?
Kupu offers volunteer opportunities periodically; please call or email us at info@kupuhawaii.org to learn more.
May I get a classroom visit or a speaker to come to my school?
Yes, please call the Kupu office at (808) 735-1221 ext. 2004 to schedule a class visit.
What if I have more questions?
Call (808) 735-1221 ext. 2004 or e-mail us at info@kupuhawaii.org.Back To Top