paying it forward with meals that heal
Kealoha Nui Foundation
The Kealoha Nui Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to continuing the charitable legacy of Manuel “Kealoha” Smith. Led by his granddaughter, Kapiʻolei Smythe, and daughter, Malia Smith, who owns ʻAi Love Nalo restaurant and We The Well Beings LLC – Hāʻehuola Health & Wellness Program, the foundation is committed to providing health and wellness education, and nutritious and healthy meals to those in need in our community.
THe Inspiration behind the kealoha nui foundation
Meet Manuel “Kealoha” Smith
Ever since he was a young boy, Manuel was known for his million-dollar smile and kind-heart! In high school, Manuel’s teachers gave him the nickname “Kealoha” because they said he was strong-willed, honest, passionate, gentlemanly, giving, and pure love. His life was a testament to that sacred name, which means The Loved One!
Manuel “Kealoha” Smith served in the U.S. Air Force for four years, then went on to work for Ameron HC&D as a heavy equipment operator for 35 years.
His Service to the Community
After retiring from Ameron, he became a foster parent (with his wife, Beryl) for 11 years, providing a happy and safe home for dozens of children. Manuel then dedicated 16 more years to volunteering for the Lanakila Meals on Wheels program and Helping Hands Hawaii, which provides prepared meals to older people. His kindness extended beyond delivering meals as he would sit with each person, offering companionship and assistance. Manuel’s volunteer work was widely acknowledged by many. For example, former news anchor Pamela Young penned a heartwarming piece in the Midweek honoring him for his compassionate nature, noting, “Manuel cares for his seniors and looks out for them, even adjusting his delivery schedule to fit their needs. His seniors have commented, ‘It is like having Santa Claus come every day!'” He loved the seniors on his route and found great joy in delivering their meals. But, if that wasn’t enough to illustrate his generous nature, there were many times when he showed up at some of their homes to fix their broken screens, wheelchairs, and doors. Most of the time, they wouldn’t even know that it was he who had made the repairs.
His Commendations for Service
Manuel’s dedication to volunteering was widely recognized and celebrated. He received awards and certificates from various prestigious figures and institutions. For instance, he received awards from Lanakila’s former President, James Wakafuji, and Norma Koenig of the Hawaii State Department of Human Services. He was also recognized by the State of Hawaii Senate, and Senators Suzanne Chun Oakland and Fred Hemmings. He received a certificate of recognition for his volunteer service from former Mayor Jeremy Harris. Additionally, he received the Governor’s Kilohana Award for Outstanding Volunteerism from former governor Ben Cayetano, a notable commendation for his outstanding volunteer work from former Governor Linda Lingle and Lieutenant Governor Duke Aiona, a certificate of special congressional recognition from former U.S. House of Representative Neil Abercrombie, and The President’s Call To Service Award in recognition for his substantial volunteer hours from the office of former President Barack Obama.
Together We Can Heal with Meals!
Introducing
Our Advisory Board Members
Malia J. Smith
Lead Advisor – Co-Founder – Business Owner
Gabrielle Kapiʻolei Smythe
Advisor – Co-Founder – Marketing/Social Media
Beryl J. Smith
Advisor – Widow of Manuel “Kealoha” Smith