Summer Crew Wrap-Up: Highlights and Reflections

Reading time: 4.5 minutes

This summer, the Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi was fortunate to host a talented and passionate group of interns and volunteers through programs including PIPES, the Punahou Sustainability Fellowship, and law school externships. From legal research and environmental storytelling to hands-on conservation work and community engagement, each of these individuals brought their unique strengths and perspectives to support our mission. We’re excited to share a glimpse into their incredible contributions and reflections on what they learned during their time with us. Mahalo nui to our summer crew — we’re so grateful for your energy, care, and commitment!

Alex, Student Volunteer

I am interested in environmental studies and by volunteering at the Sierra Club, I was able to further explore this interest while also seeking out ways to contribute to my community. My summer work with the Sierra Club was an exciting introduction to the variety of responsibilities involved in environmental advocacy and conservation. A large portion of my time with Sierra Club was spent writing an article for the June issue of the Mālama Monthly on the water scarcity of Heʻeia Stream, as well as drafting an accompanying social media post. However, I also had the opportunity to contribute to other projects behind the scenes. I helped organize an art submission contest related to Red Hill and supported preparations for a panel on the SpaceX testing at Kalama by drafting outreach emails—though the event was cancelled due to the suspension of the project. In addition, I participated in hands-on work such as canvassing at Puʻuloa to spread awareness of lead poisoning caused by the shooting range and volunteering at Sierra Club-sponsored projects, including removing invasive species at Wāwāmalu Beach and clearing a pathway at the ʻelepaio habitat in Pālehua. What I enjoyed most about my experience with the Sierra Club was learning about the environmental challenges facing our community and seeing how people have come together to address them collectively.

Sydney, Punahou Sustainability Fellowship Program

This summer, I had a fulfilling experience learning about community environmental issues such as the Puʻuloa lead contamination, potential Kalama rocket landings, and climate change as a whole. My work revolved around spreading awareness through communications and social media. During my internship, I interviewed 10+ community leaders, field experts, and civilians to gather information. I created around seven social media materials (see one here!) and two content calendars while working as an organizer for a Red Hill themed art contest. The main aim of the content I created was to emphasize facets of community issues that often aren’t talked about. I also wanted to provide content to smaller advocacy groups that must juggle awareness-raising with action on their respective causes. Beyond this summer, I hope to continue working with the Sierra Club to continue highlighting the issues that impact our home. 

Kahinu, Pacific Internships for Exploring Science (PIPES)

I had the privilege of being the first PIPES intern with the Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi this summer! With the club I was able to merge my passions for ʻāina, kaiāulu, and advocacy by helping them create content that highlights the wastewater management issues in Keaukaha as well as taking a deep dive into the Ka Paʻakai Analysis to learn more about how decisions are made in the legal landscape in Hawaiʻi with regards to land use. Through my internship I was able to build pilina with the members of the club and those I had the privilege of being introduced to. My favorite part about my work here this summer was interviewing community members with experience in the legal field who are deeply rooted in Hawaiʻi to hear their manaʻo about land use law. I hope to maintain the connections I have built with the club and look forward to seeing all the amazing things they continue to do for Hawaiʻi!!

Kayli, Law Extern

I had a great time being a law extern with Sierra Club and I want to thank them for providing me with the exposure to different areas of environmental work. I had the opportunity to do a variety of work ranging from research of lithium ion battery disposal to highlighting the importance of contested case hearings. My favorite task of this summer was helping to write sample testimony for the rejection of the Army’s faulty FEIS for the retention of lands on Oʻahu. I feel very honored to be a part of a team that is working to protect the environment, provide education, and build a sense of community. I know the skills that I’ve gained through this experience will serve me well as a law student and I hope to make the same positive impact that this team at Sierra Club has made! 

Katie, Law Student

Thank you Sierra Club for having me as a volunteer this summer! It was a great opportunity to learn more about and support a variety of local environmental causes. The Sierra Club is an excellent showcase of how community, communication, education, and teamwork can and should be utilized together to work toward public good. I have loved getting to know all of the staff and fellow interns/volunteers this summer! It was inspiring being able to work with like-minded, passionate, and kind individuals. As a law student, I have been able to work on legal research projects, as well as personally interesting research such as the history and feasibility of bio-liquid natural gas. I am looking forward to continuing learning and volunteering with the Sierra Club!