OUR MISSION
To support the National Park Service in the protection, preservation, and interpretation of the natural and cultural resources at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park for the enjoyment of current and future generations.
Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park was originally founded in 1997 as Na Hoaloha ‘Ainahou (“The Friends of ‘Ainahou”). ‘Ainahou is a historic ranch located within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
In 1995, through the help of our founding members, the ‘Ainahou Ranch House and its grounds were listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From this effort, “The Friends of ‘Ainahou” was formed, with articles of incorporation and bylaws officially adopted in 1997.
A dedicated group of volunteers cleared approximately 10 acres of the ranch property, which had been developed in the 1940s by businessman and horticulturalist Herbert C. Shipman, a descendant of one of Hawai‘i‘s oldest missionary families.
As our mission and focus expanded beyond ‘Ainahou, we changed names to become the “Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park” in 2002.
Today, volunteers continue to play a major role in the upkeep of the ‘Ainahou Ranch House and Gardens. In addition, ‘Ainahou provides a site for study and interpretation of the Hawaiian environment and culture, and is a safe haven for a small flock of nēnē, Hawai‘i’s endangered native goose.