Hana High & Elementary graduate Kane Kanakaole has been appointed to direct the nonprofit Maui Economic Opportunity’s operations in Hana as Branch Manager.

He will be responsible for running MEO programs in Hana, including rental and utility assistance, the once-a-month food distribution and transportation services, such as shopping shuttles between East Maui and Kahului and rides to doctor’s appointments and other activities. Residents can access most MEO programs through the office.

The MEO Hana Office is located at the Hana Community Center, 5101 Uakea Road, and is open 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

Kanakaole joined MEO in January as a bus driver in Hana and took over as Hana Branch Manager in August.

Prior to joining MEO, Kanakaole was the recreation supervisor at the Hyatt Hana-Maui Resort, coordinating special events and outdoor activities, leading development of marketing plans for recreational programs, managing supplies and materials, and scheduling staff.

In 2018-19, he was the Community Programs Coordinator for Hana Health, creating social media campaigns, developing budgets for new programs and initiatives, organizing community outreach for new programs and events to raise awareness about the organization.

Kanakaole earned an Associate of Arts in Hawaiian studies and language from UH-Maui College and attended Hana High & Elementary from kindergarten to 12th grade.

To reach Kanakaole and the MEO Hana Office, call (808) 248-8282.