Soft Opening Wednesday, July 1, 2026!
Empowering Youth. Building Futures.
The Puna ʻŌpio Hub is a youth-centered resource and workforce development program created to help young people ages 14–25 in Lower Puna build the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive.
Located in Hawaiian Paradise Park, the Hub provides a welcoming space where youth and young adults can access career guidance, educational support, life skills training, and essential resources that promote long-term economic stability and independence.
Whether someone is preparing for their first job, exploring college or trade school opportunities, learning to manage finances, or simply looking for a safe place to connect with support, the Puna ʻŌpio Hub is here to help.
Why the Puna ʻŌpio Hub?
Transitioning into adulthood can be challenging, especially when access to employment opportunities, technology, transportation, and support services is limited.
The Puna ʻŌpio Hub was created to bridge these gaps by providing a continuum of support that helps young people successfully navigate the journey from adolescence into higher education, meaningful employment, and independent adulthood.
By investing in the next generation, we are helping build a stronger and more resilient future for Lower Puna and Hawaiʻi Island.
What We Offer
Workforce Development
Youth and young adults receive personalized support to help them prepare for employment and discover their strengths, passions, and career goals.
Services include:
- Job readiness training
- Resume and cover letter development
- Interview preparation
- Career exploration
- Job search assistance
- Employment placement support
College & Career Pathways
Participants receive one-on-one guidance as they explore opportunities beyond high school.
Support includes:
- College and trade school applications
- FAFSA assistance
- Scholarship support
- Career planning
- Employment application assistance
- Education and training referrals
Resource Navigation
The Hub provides drop-in access to technology and caring staff who help participants connect with the resources they need to succeed.
Services include:
- Computer and internet access
- Budgeting assistance
- Transportation coordination
- Connections to housing resources
- Food security referrals
- Childcare resources
- Referrals to community support services
Digital & Financial Literacy
Participants build practical skills that promote confidence, independence, and long-term stability.
Topics include:
- Basic computer skills
- Technology use and digital literacy
- Online safety
- Budgeting and money management
- Financial planning
- Building healthy financial habits
Cultural & ʻĀina-Based Learning
Through hands-on experiences in the community garden, participants strengthen their connection to culture, community, and the environment.
Learning opportunities include:
- Sustainable food systems
- Gardening and agriculture
- Environmental stewardship
- Small-scale business development
- Community responsibility
- Cultural connection and ʻike (knowledge)
Life Skills Development
Success extends beyond education and employment. The Hub helps participants develop essential life skills that support success at home, school, and work.
Topics include:
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Time management
- Goal setting
- Financial responsibility
- Healthy daily living habits
- Building confidence and resilience
A Place to Learn, Grow, and Thrive
The Puna ʻŌpio Hub is a place where young people can discover their potential, explore new opportunities, and build meaningful connections.
By providing individualized support and practical skill-building opportunities, the Hub empowers youth and young adults to take the next step toward a brighter future.
Who Can Participate?
The Puna ʻŌpio Hub serves:
- Youth and young adults ages 14–25
- Young people seeking employment, educational opportunities, or life skills development
- Young people looking for access to resources, mentorship, and community support
Our Vision
We envision a future where every young person in Puna has access to the opportunities, resources, and support they need to thrive.
Through education, workforce development, cultural connection, and community engagement, the Puna ʻŌpio Hub is helping create pathways to opportunity and building the next generation of leaders for Hawaiʻi Island.
Visit the Puna ʻŌpio Hub
Address: 15-1839 32nd Ave, Keaau, HI 96749
Hours of Operation:
Monday: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Events Calendar
Check out our calendar below to stay updated on the upcoming workshops and events at Puna ʻŌpio Hub. We regularly update our events, so make sure to check back often to see our latest offerings and how you can connect with us.
Get Connected
Interested in learning more about the Puna ʻŌpio Hub?
Whether you’re looking for support, interested in volunteering, or would like to partner with us, we’d love to hear from you.