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Children's hands planting vegetables for Hawaii Agricultural Foundation's Veggie U education program

Our Story

Cultivating Connection. Growing for Generations.

The Hawai‘i Ag Foundation (HAF) is a nonprofit dedicated to cultivating a food-secure and resilient Hawai‘i. Founded in 2007 and renamed in 2010, HAF strengthens the future of local agriculture by connecting farmers, ranchers, students, teachers, and communities statewide.

Through community outreach that raises awareness, educational programs that inspire the next generation, and farmer assistance initiatives that provide direct support, HAF creates pathways for agriculture to thrive. By fostering collaboration, learning, and action, we work to ensure that Hawai‘i’s agricultural industry continues to grow—for our people, our islands, and generations to come.

Connecting Community to Agriculture

HAF’s Outreach and Public Awareness programs strengthen the connection between Hawai‘i’s communities and the people who grow our food. Signature initiatives like EAT THINK DRINK and Localicious Hawai‘i bring agriculture to the forefront—sparking dialogue, celebrating local farmers, and highlighting the importance of a resilient food system. These programs not only educate but also inspire action, building a stronger future for agriculture in Hawai‘i.

Growing Future Leaders in Agriculture

HAF’s Educational Programs inspire Hawai‘i’s youth to see themselves in the future of agriculture. From classroom workshops and farm excursions to hands-on curriculum and career exploration, these programs introduce students to farming, food systems, and the many opportunities within the industry. By sparking curiosity and fostering appreciation at an early age, HAF helps cultivate the next generation of leaders who will sustain Hawai‘i’s agricultural future.

Supporting Farmers, Sustaining Hawai‘i

HAF’s Farmer Assistance Programs provide vital support to strengthen the viability and sustainability of farming in Hawai‘i. By expanding access to land and resources, offering technical guidance, hosting workshops on business essentials, and creating opportunities for market growth and branding, these programs empower farmers to thrive. Supporting farmers today ensures a resilient agricultural future for generations to come.

Our Team

The Hawai‘i Agricultural Foundation is guided by a passionate team and dedicated board of directors whose diverse expertise spans education, agriculture, business, and community leadership. Together, they share a common purpose—to strengthen Hawai‘i’s food future and cultivate a resilient, thriving agricultural community for generations to come.

Board of Directors

Officers

Denise Hayashi Yamaguchi

Founder + Executive Director, HAF

Assistant Secretary

Dean Okimoto

Chief People Officer, Nalo Farms

Chairman

Meredith Ching

Senior Vice President, Alexander and Baldwin

Secretary

Directors

Warren Watanabe

Executive Director, Maui Farm Bureau

Keith Horita

President & CEO, Paradise Cove Luau

Lisa A. Kim

Owner, LAK Enterprises

Jon Miyabuchi

Region President - Hawai'i FreshPoint Hawai'i

Carina Ohara

Deputy General Counsel, Pan Pacific Retail Management

Robert "Bob" Yee

Group Senior VP & Division Manager, Central Pacific Bank