Hawaii 3Rs has completed over 500 projects across the state, saving taxpayers more than $40 million in repair costs — transforming public schools into safe, inspiring places where every child can thrive.
Hawaii 3Rs — Repair, Remodel, Restore — is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the repair and maintenance needs of Hawaii's public schools. We collaborate with the Hawaii State Department of Education (HiDOE) to identify schools in critical need and mobilize community resources to transform aging facilities into safe, healthy, and inspiring learning environments.
We envision a Hawaii where every public school provides a safe, well-maintained environment that inspires learning and nurtures the potential of every student. Through the power of community partnerships, volunteer engagement, and strategic investment, we are building a brighter future for Hawaii's keiki — one school at a time.
Hawaii's public schools face a repair and maintenance backlog exceeding $640 million. Many school buildings are decades old, with deteriorating infrastructure that impacts student health and learning outcomes. Since 2001, Hawaii 3Rs has stepped in to bridge this gap — completing over 500 projects, generating funding through private donations and legislative appropriations, and recruiting volunteers to contribute "sweat equity" for every project.
From playground installations to classroom renovations, our programs address the most pressing infrastructure needs across Hawaii's public schools.
In partnership with HiDOE, Hawaii 3Rs received over $30 million to install and repair playground equipment at every elementary school in the state. Each playground costs between $75,000 and $175,000 to complete, providing safe outdoor play spaces for thousands of keiki.
We award grants to public schools for repair and maintenance projects including painting, landscaping, technical repairs, and general cleanup — all approved by the DOE. Hawaii 3Rs provides oversight, project management, and coordination of professional vendors and volunteers.
At the request of the DOE, Hawaii 3Rs assisted in developing and renovating classroom space for a unique health academy — providing healthcare training to students while offering health services to the community. This successful model is now being replicated at other schools.
Whether you volunteer your time, donate resources, or partner with us — every contribution makes a lasting impact on Hawaii's students.
Join our community work days and help repair, paint, and renovate schools across Hawaii. No experience necessary — just bring your aloha spirit!
Your tax-deductible contribution helps us purchase materials, hire licensed vendors, and expand our renovation projects to more schools statewide.
Businesses and organizations can sponsor projects, donate resources, or organize corporate volunteer days. Together, we can do more.
Help spread the word about Hawaii 3Rs and the importance of school facility maintenance. Check line 43a on your Hawaii state tax form to donate!
Have questions about Hawaii 3Rs, want to volunteer, or interested in partnering with us? We'd love to hear from you.