In a heartwarming display of community solidarity, the nonprofit organization "What Makes You Feel Beautiful" hosted a Mele Kalikimaka ʻOhana Care Celebration on December 8th, welcoming over 100 Maui families to Unity on Maui. This event, as reported by Maui Now, provided much-needed holiday cheer, community connection, and essential care items to local ʻohana, a particularly crucial service during a season marked by continued rebuilding and healing.
The event’s focus on supporting families underscores the organization's mission, which includes fostering self-love and confidence within the community, especially among young women and girls. What Makes You Feel Beautiful offers workshops centered on self-esteem, skill-building, and body positivity, coupled with mentorship and educational resources; these initiatives help build resilience among Maui’s residents. The recent holiday gathering extended these efforts by creating a joyful atmosphere, where keiki could decorate holiday cookies and engage in creative activities. This type of programming offers positive outlets while the community collectively faces ongoing challenges.
The initiative also highlights the significant needs that persist within the Maui community, particularly for families affected by recent events. Maui United Way has allocated over $12.9 million to support fire-impacted individuals and organizations. The distribution of essential care items demonstrates the practical support "What Makes You Feel Beautiful" provides while addressing the crucial emotional and social effects of the recent events. The provision of resources like these significantly contributes to recovery efforts across the island.
This event is a strong example of how local nonprofits create positive outcomes for families. The ability to unite community members, provide a safe space, and deliver essential resources during the holidays underscores the importance of such organizations and their contributions to the long-term well-being of Maui's residents.
