About the Foundation

Built by a Hawaiʻi tradesman, for Hawaiʻi's workforce

We are a Hawaiʻi Public Benefit Nonprofit Corporation dedicated to building career pathways that strengthen our communities through the dignity of skilled trades.

Program Pathways

4+ Yrs

Founder Experience

Statewide

Service Commitment

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"A skilled trade is more than a paycheck. It is dignity and stability."

Our Founder: Lance Powell

Kahaunaele Foundation was founded in 2026 by Lance Manuel Kahiwahiwa Powell, owner of Paradise AC LLC — a Hawaiʻi-based HVAC contractor serving residential and commercial clients since 2021.

After years of building a successful trade business locally, Lance identified a critical gap in the workforce pipeline. His vision was clear: to open the same doors of opportunity for others that the trades opened for him.

By focusing on Native Hawaiians, returning citizens, and young people without a clear path after high school, Lance aims to foster a new generation of skilled professionals who can provide for their families and contribute to the islands' resilience.

Future Board of Directors

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Pending

Our Values

The Foundation of Our Work

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Aloha

Lead with respect, dignity, and compassion in every interaction. It is the breath of life in how we treat our students and partners.

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ʻOhana

Build community through training, mentorship, and lifelong support. When you train with us, you join a family that looks out for your long-term success.

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Kuleana

Hold ourselves accountable to the people we serve and the communities we represent. This is our privilege and our responsibility.

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Pono

Do what is right, ethically and operationally. We maintain the highest standards of integrity in our training and our nonprofit governance.

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Imua

Move forward, equipping students with skills, certifications, and opportunities. We are constantly striving for progress for our students.

Built in Partnership with Industry Experts

Kahaunaele Foundation was born from the practical, hands-on experience of **Paradise AC LLC**. Since 2021, Paradise AC has been a cornerstone of quality HVAC service in Hawaiʻi.

This partnership ensures our training isn't just theoretical—it's industry-tested, meeting the real-world demands of Hawaiʻi's mechanical and trade employers.

Visit Paradise AC LLC open_in_new

Ready to start your journey?

Whether you are looking to train, mentor, or support our mission, we welcome you to our ʻohana.