Hui O Laulima’s Cultural Grants Committee is currently accepting applications for its 2021 Cultural Grant program. The grants are aimed at supporting the applicants’ efforts to preserve and perpetuate Okinawan culture, one of the missions of Hui O Laulima. The grants are awarded to individuals and groups in the spirit of laulima — the Hawaiian word for “giving a helping hand.” Hui O Laulima, a women’s organization, is a member-club of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association and has been awarding cultural grants and scholarships since 1984. To date, the group has awarded more than $210,000 in grants.
The criteria for selection includes:
• Interest in the study, perpetuation and promotion of Okinawan culture (music, dance, art or other forms of artistic expressions), language and history, including goodwill projects;
• Leadership ability;
• Community service;
• Financial need;
• Overall potential for success;
• Clarity of goal(s); and
• Two letters of recommendation from individuals other than the applicant’s relatives.
The grant application form, which is due July 31, contains the complete list of criteria for selection. All prospective grant projects/activities must take place during the 2021 calendar year (January through December).
Inquiries and/or requests for application forms should be directed to Karen Fuse, committee chair, at kcfuse@hawaii.rr.com.