Together our Aloha Amplified team and community partners bring you Lights for Lahaina—a moment to honor what was lost, celebrate what remains, and illuminate the promise of Lahaina’s future.
Aloha Amplified, Inc. was born from the heart of our family in January 2025. As a mom and daughters team — Linn Nishikawa, Casey Morrin, and Lori Nishikawa — we’ve have been serving our Maui community collectively launching events, fundraisers and more. Over the years, that’s meant supporting local nonprofits and small businesses, and creating spaces for community resources and events on Maui Nui Strong, supporting locals with Kama‘aina discounts on Maui Nui First and continuing to support grassroots non-profits like Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama Disaster Long Term Recovery Group to rebuild. These projects were about amplifying the existing strength and aloha of the community, so we can come together and support each other. As the recovery continues, we created Aloha Amplified so we can step more into the grassroots space and stand with our neighbors during times of uncertainty and create spaces where people could find resources, strength, and hope.
We are deeply honored to have Wilmont Kamaunu Kahaiali‘i serve our Aloha Amplified Board President. Through our collaboration and Kamaunu’s vision, the concept for Lights for Lahaina was born — a special gathering of remembrance, healing, and hope that will take place on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Maria Lanakila Catholic Church in Lahaina. This event is about more than lanterns or music; it’s about healing hearts, honoring what we’ve lost, and looking toward Lahaina’s future with courage and aloha.
Starting Aloha Amplified is our way of continuing this journey, but in a deeper and more lasting way. Our goal is to use our non-profit to amplify the incredible work, spirit, and resilience that already exist in our community. We believe Maui’s stories deserve to be heard, its healing deserves to be nurtured, and its future deserves to be envisioned together.
Looking ahead, our vision is to keep creating spaces — whether online, at community events, or through storytelling — where people can feel seen, supported, and inspired. Aloha Amplified is here for the long journey of recovery and resilience, and our hope is that in the years to come, we can continue to be a small but steady voice helping to lift Maui’s spirit and carry it forward for future generations.
Reach out if you have any questions by contacting aloha@alohaamplified.org.
Taylor Kim
Guests are welcomed to the beach, with lantern-making stations, local food trucks, and live Hawaiian music. Supplies and guidance are provided for all ages.
Jordan Lee
Bells ring across Lahaina, followed by a traditional Hawaiian chant and a moment of silence. Community leaders and cultural practitioners offer words of remembrance.
Morgan Rivera
Participants gather at the shoreline to release lanterns into the ocean, honoring loved ones and sharing messages of hope. All are invited to join in reflection.
Avery Chen
A unity circle forms on the sand, with candles and soft music. Attendees are encouraged to connect, share, and support one another in a peaceful setting.
Casey Tran
Volunteers and guests help collect lanterns and clean the shoreline, ensuring the beach remains beautiful and safe for all. Supplies are provided.
Riley Park
Enjoy time with friends and family, connect with local organizations, and learn more about ongoing recovery efforts. Everyone is welcome.