Canadian residents pay in Canadian funds at the exchange rate of 1.36
Established in Montreal in 1982.
Outstanding summer programs for teens since 1982
Wildlife Conservation Program in Hawaii
This community service program in Hawaii is the perfect option for teens who want to learn about and help with marine conservation efforts! Make a positive environmental impact with like-minded peers in an effort to protect the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle population. You’ll also learn about Hawaiian culture and gain a strong appreciation of the Hawaiian people and their way of life. Every day will be different as you help with various tasks related to sea turtle conservation and coral reef ecosystem preservation, such as, scientific research, photo identification efforts and coastal clean ups. There is so much to be done to help protect endangered species in our marine ecosystems! Outside your volunteering time, soak up the spectacular scenery while surfing or experiencing an authentic luau. This program explores all the beauty, culture and adventure of two Hawaiian islands. By the time your program comes to an end, you will be a close-knit ohana!
Program Highlights
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Support sea turtle protection initiatives alongside expert biologists.
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Learn the importance of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles to marine ecosystems.
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Surf the O’ahu waves with professional instructors.
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Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian Luau.
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Embark on a spectacular hike at Diamond Head.
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Help conserve the environment and natural beauty of Maui.
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Cruise to and snorkel the Molokini crater, home to 250 species of fish.
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Unwind on pristine beaches.
Service Projects
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Malama na Honu
Engage in an educational program focused on the anatomy, history, and the importance of the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. Working alongside Malama na Honu staff, students will offer educational outreach and public awareness to residents and visitors at the service facility. Experience hands-on work to maintain clean beaches and communicate the importance of wildlife conservation to the community.
About Malama na Honu
Malama na Honu is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting Hawaiian sea turtles through education, public awareness and conservation, all in the Spirit of Aloha. They are focused on protecting this threatened species and spreading the word to the public on the continuing need for preservation efforts.
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Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute
Work directly assisting biologists and conservationists with various research and conservation projects related to Hawaii’s sea turtles and coral reef ecosystems. Try your hand at photo identification of endangered Hawaiian sea turtles, assess coral coverage percentages along Maui’s reef ecosystems, and clean up marine debris. Look out for the opportunity to view a turtle that comes into the center to be rehabilitated!
About MOC Marine Institute
MOCMI is a nonprofit organization based on Maui with a mission to inspire lifelong environmental stewardship and ensure the survival of coral reefs and sea turtles in Hawaii through science-based conservation efforts, education, and outreach.
Activities
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O'ahu, Hawaii
Welcome to Island Life! Soak up the sun as you enjoy the sweeping views and unwind on Secret Beach. Hike Diamond Head, a crater formed from the eruptions of the Ko’olau Volcano many years ago. Master the waves and hang loose while learning to surf with professional instructors who will have you on the board with confidence in no time!
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Maui, Hawaii
Sail and snorkel among 250 species of tropical fish, most of which can only be found in the Hawaiian waters. You’ll leave the island feeling like a local after experiencing an authentic luau! Spend the afternoon exploring the Iao Valley and the beautiful Twin Falls. Say farewell to the scenic island of Maui, the perfect place to reflect on all the memories and friendships you’ve made that will last a lifetime!
Accommodations
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O'ahu, Hawaii
The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki is located within walking distance of the iconic Waikiki beaches and a short distance to vibrant restaurants and activities. The hotel features contemporary rooms, an onsite restaurant, and a pool.
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Maui, Hawaii
Discover tropical paradise at Maui Coast Hotel. Perfectly situated on Maui’s pristine West Coast. The hotel offers breath taking ocean views, an outdoor swimming pool and fitness center.
About This Program
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What It’s Like
The perfect balance of meaningful service projects, cultural immersion and unforgettable adventures.
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25 Service Hours
A letter of completion detailing the program's service hours and projects will be issued after the program.
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Recognition
Your service hours are eligible toward the President's Volunteer Service Award.
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Service Projects
Everybody participates together in each project. Specific projects are confirmed in late spring and are similar to those described.
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Accommodations
Hotels.
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Meals
Includes breakfast and dinner daily, plus 1 lunch.
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Activities
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
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Transportation
Travel in passenger vans driven by our staff.
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Group Size
Up to 24 participants.
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Dietary Options
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
More Details
Frequently Asked Questions
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What if I need to contact my teen during the program?
Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.
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Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
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How are roommates assigned?
Giving everyone a chance to make new friends creates a cohesive group and the warmest and most welcoming social environments in our industry!
On our Active Teen Tours, Global Adventures and Community Service programs, rooming rotation is as follows:
To promote this we’ve found the best system is for the Program Director to assign the rooms for the first and second stops. For the first stop, independent travelers room with other independent travelers and any friends who enrolled can room together. All participants will be assigned a different roommate for the second stop. After the first two stops, choice of roommates is always up to you!On our Pre-College Enrichment programs & Career Experiences, rooming is as follows:
We assign independent travelers with another independent traveler for the duration of your stay. Any friends who enrolled together can room together.Important notes:
- Depending on the hotel bedding configuration, all friends traveling together may not be able to room together for the first stop.
- Roommates are assigned based on gender identity. We welcome all genders, inclusive of those anywhere on the gender spectrum.
- On a few programs where we spend an extended period of time at the first stop, participants have the opportunity to rotate after the first two nights.