Reconnecting & Refocusing: First In-Person HEAL Coalition Meeting

After years of virtual collaboration, the Hawai‘i Island HEAL (Healthy Eating + Active Living) Coalition reached a major milestone in June—our first in-person meeting as an organized coalition! Held in beautiful Hilo as a hybrid gathering, the event brought together coalition members, local leaders, and partner organizations from across the island and beyond, blending face-to-face connection with virtual inclusivity. 

The atmosphere was filled with renewed energy and purpose as participants shared ideas, reflected on progress, and celebrated our shared vision of building healthier, more connected communities. For many, this was the first chance to meet long-time collaborators in person, a moment of reconnection and resilience that reminded us of the strength behind our collective work.

A central focus of the meeting was identifying the coalition’s 2025 priorities through small-group dialogue and guided planning exercises. Emerging themes included food access as a top priority, built environment improvements, campaigns to promote bike and pedestrian safety, and a desire for a centralized resource hub to better connect the public and partner organizations to available services and tools. Across all conversations, participants emphasized the importance of ensuring our strategies reflect the real needs, voices, and lived experiences of the communities we serve. 

Coalition members also shared updates on current projects and recent wins, including school gardens, wellness programs, youth outreach, and local food hub efforts. Hearing these updates in person allowed for a deeper appreciation of the diverse and impactful work happening across the island. 

The exchange sparked ideas for new collaborations, as members discovered ways to align their efforts, amplify shared goals, and create more systemic change.

In true HEAL fashion, the day included a movement break—a scenic walk along the Hilo Bayfront Trails. This mid-day activity modeled the importance of integrating wellness into our routines while offering space for informal connection and conversation. The walk wasn’t just a reset but a lived example of the active, welcoming community spaces the coalition hopes to champion.

As we look ahead to 2026, the momentum built during this gathering has laid a strong foundation for the work ahead. The collective insight, enthusiasm, and commitment shared—both in person and online—have strengthened our partnerships and clarified our direction. 

Mahalo to everyone who contributed their time, mana‘o, and aloha to make this event a success. With our vision aligned and priorities set, the HEAL Coalition is ready to keep the momentum going—and to continue building healthier, more connected communities across Hawaiʻi Island.