About Us

Who We Are

Founded in 2001, CNHA is a statewide and national network of over 100 Native Hawaiian Organizations. We are a strong voice on public policy, operate a community loan fund, deliver capacity-building and leadership development services, and promote community-owned enterprises.

We unify the political, economic, community, and cultural knowledge of our member organizations to advance Native Hawaiians.

Our History

Today, the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement’s network of member organizations exceeds one hundred. We remember our beginnings and the six founding members (four Native Hawaiian Organizations and two Individual Members) that envisioned the work we remain dedicated to today:

Raynard Soon, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands

Hardy Spoehr, Papa Ola Lokahi

Tara Lulani Arquette, ALU LIKE, Inc.

Mahealani Wendt, Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation

Melody MacKenzie

Robin Puanani Danner

Our Team & Member Network

CNHA is governed by a 15-member board of directors and employs 10-13 staff members. Our members include over 100 Native Hawaiian community development organizations working in every facet of community service and engagement.