Our Mission

Building Aloha is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing cultural education and mental wellness through the practice of Aloha. Rooted in values of kuleana (responsibility), lōkahi (unity), and mālama (care), we serve Pacific Islander and Indigenous communities by strengthening identity, connection, and resilience. We create inclusive spaces for all who are committed to unity, mutual support, and collective healing (hoʻōla lāhui).

Our Vision

“We believe Aloha is more than a word—it is a practice. It is how we show up for one another, how we care for our elders and youth, and how we restore balance through kindness, humility, patience, unity, and love.”

Who We Are

Building Aloha is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit advancing cultural education and mental wellness through the practice of Aloha. Grounded in kuleana (responsibility), lōkahi (unity), and mālama (care), our work centers Pacific Islander and Indigenous communities while remaining open to all who are committed to shared responsibility and collective healing.

We operate at the intersection of culture and well-being—where identity, connection, and mental health are strengthened together. Through culturally rooted spaces, programs, and partnerships, we support individuals and families in building resilience, restoring belonging, and sustaining community.

Our approach is practical and community-led: we create environments where culture is lived, not just taught; where support is mutual, not transactional; and where healing is collective, not isolated.

This is our commitment—to build Aloha with integrity, accountability, and purpose.

 

About Us

Building Aloha is a California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through culturally grounded engagement, mental wellness support, and resource-driven initiatives.

We operate across California, with active programming and outreach in:

  • Sacramento County
  • Los Angeles County
  • Contra Costa County
  • Orange County
  • San Diego County

Our work focuses on communities that are often underserved, including Polynesian populations, veterans, families in crisis, and local small businesses.

 

Our Impact

 

  • Served 20,000 individuals and families annually
  • Activated across 5 California counties
  • Produced 15 community events per year
  • Partnered with 420 organizations and local businesses

 

Who We Serve

 

  • Polynesian and culturally connected communities
  • Veterans and their families
  • Individuals and families experiencing hardship
  • Local entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses

 

Why “Building Aloha”

“Aloha” is not used symbolically. It defines how we operate.

It represents:

  • Responsibility to community
  • Respect across cultures
  • Consistent, actionable care

We translate this into structured programs, partnerships, and environments that create long-term stability—not temporary engagement.

 

Where We’re Going

Building Aloha is focused on:

  • Expanding multi-county programming across California
  • Strengthening disaster relief and emergency response systems
  • Increasing access to mental wellness resources
  • Building long-term partnerships that sustain community infrastructure

 

We are a community infrastructure organization focused on connection, support, and measurable impact.

 
 
 

How We Kākoʻo

Building Aloha delivers culturally grounded, community-based programs that integrate education, connection, and mental wellness:

  • Cultural Events & Education
    We host and sponsor events that preserve and share cultural knowledge, practices, and traditions, creating spaces where communities can gather, learn, and reconnect.
  • Youth Development Programs
    We provide culturally rooted mentorship, leadership development, and safe spaces that strengthen identity, confidence, and emotional well-being among youth.
  • Veteran Support Services
    We offer community-centered support for veterans, focusing on belonging, mental wellness, and reintegration through culturally relevant engagement.
  • Re-Entry & Second Chance Programs
    We support individuals transitioning from incarceration by providing mentorship, community connection, and pathways toward stability and purpose.
  • Mentorship & Leadership Development
    We cultivate leaders through intergenerational mentorship, skill-building, and opportunities to serve with kuleana in their communities.
  • Fundraising & Sponsored Initiatives
    We organize and sponsor mission-aligned cultural education events and fundraisers that sustain programming and expand community impact.
  • Emergency Relief & Community Response
    We activate rapid, culturally responsive support during times of crisis, providing resources, coordination, and care to affected communities.

Meet The Team - Hui

We are a working team grounded in purpose and accountability. Building Aloha is led by individuals with lived experience, cultural connection, and a shared commitment to community well-being. Our team brings together backgrounds in nonprofit leadership, cultural practice, mental wellness, and community organizing.

We don’t operate at a distance—we show up, build relationships, and do the work alongside the communities we serve. Each member carries a sense of kuleana (responsibility) to uphold the mission with integrity, contribute to collective growth, and ensure our impact is consistent, measurable, and rooted in Aloha.

Marc "Kamaka" Luke, Chief Executive Officer & President
Mapuna "Puna" Theisen, Chief Financial Officer & Vice President
Roderick "Rooster" Gabriel, Project Manager, Southern California Region
Professor Joe "Ku'e" Angeles, Cultural Educator & Advocate for Pacific Islander, Southeast Asian American & Indigenous Peoples
Edmund "Ed" Carnecer, Adminstrative Assistant & Resource Manager

Wakane “Coach Wakanda” Luke, Secretary

Mahalo for visiting. We look forward to hearing from you—as we always say, IMUA. 


A hui hou – Until we meet again!

Contact Us:

Building Aloha

Phone: (714) 269-1610

Email: buildingaloha.sec@gmail.com

Mailing Address:
460 Wisteria Ct.,
Brentwood, CA 94513

Mailing Address: 460 Wisteria Ct., Brentwood, CA 94513

Physical Address: 4237 S Market Ct., Sacramento, CA 95834

 

Legal & Tax Information


Building Aloha is a nonprofit public benefit corporation organized under the laws of the State of California and recognized as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Federal Tax ID (EIN): 92-2103211
IRS Status: 501(c)(3) Public Charity
California Entity Number: 5301460
Contributions to Building Aloha are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. No goods or services were provided in exchange for contributions unless explicitly stated.
Building Aloha is registered with the California Attorney General’s Registry of Charities and Fundraisers. Financial and other information about this organization’s purpose, programs, and activities can be obtained by contacting us directly or by visiting the California Department of Justice website at https://oag.ca.gov/charities.

Transparency Statement
Building Aloha is committed to transparency and accountability in all operations, including financial stewardship, program delivery, and community partnerships.
Financial Access Language
Upon request, copies of our most recent financial statements, IRS Form 990, and governing documents are available.
Contact for Compliance
For compliance, governance, or financial inquiries:
Email: buildingaloha.sec@gmail.com
About Donations
All donations are processed securely. Building Aloha does not sell, trade, or share donor information with third parties.

Operate in Multiple States

Building Aloha may be required to register in additional states where fundraising activities occur. Registration does not imply endorsement.