The Hawaiʻi Youth Conservation Corps (HYCC) Community Program is an Oʻahu-based program that prepares under-resourced youth for the workforce by providing them with life skills training, green job and volunteer opportunities and encouragement to meaningfully impact their local communities through service. Kupu staff members and Community Youth Team Leaders mentor participants, usually ages 16-24, throughout the duration of the program and ensure that everyone feels a sense of cohesion and camaraderie among their team of peers. HYCC Community participants engage in culturally significant activities across the island, including outplanting native species, farming in the loʻi kalo (taro fields) and restoring loko iʻa (traditional fishponds). For many youth, these experiences create a sup