Maui council considers $125,000 for art education and youth outreach programs

On April 19, 2025, the Maui County Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee convened to discuss critical funding requests aimed at enhancing community arts and education programs. The meeting highlighted two significant proposals: a request for $50,000 for the "Art with Aloha" program and $75,000 for youth and family arts education outreach initiatives.

The "Art with Aloha" program has seen substantial growth, expanding from 16 workshops to 51 workshops over the past year. This increase has allowed local practitioners to engage with the community, teaching various artistic skills and fostering creativity. The funding is intended to support these practitioners, who play a vital role in enriching the cultural landscape of Maui.

The youth arts education outreach program aims to provide therapeutic art experiences, particularly for children. This initiative has been especially impactful for vulnerable groups, including fire victims from Lahaina and homeless children in shelters. The program emphasizes the importance of art as a means of expression, offering children a valuable outlet for their emotions and experiences.

Brian Kohn, Maui's film commissioner, also spoke at the meeting, advocating for the Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB) and its programs that bridge education and industry. Kohn highlighted the establishment of the Academy for Creative Media at Maui College, which offers degrees in filmmaking, graphic design, and animation. He underscored the importance of these educational initiatives in supporting the local economy and creative sectors.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a broader commitment to fostering arts and education in Maui County, addressing both cultural enrichment and community support. As the committee considers these funding requests, the potential impact on local youth and the arts community remains a focal point for future development. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the county's approach to supporting its creative and educational initiatives in the coming years.