About Us
Who is Ka Poʻe o Kakaʻako?
We are the people of Kaka‘ako. Ka Poʻe o Kakaʻako (KPOK) was born from the leadership of houseless individuals who turned struggle into strength. Rooted in aloha and kuleana, they built a community that heals, empowers, and connects — proving that there is a place for everyone in society regardless of their housing status. They are evidence of what truly matters and what can emerge when people are connected to each other and to place.
Our Vision
Ka Po‘e o Kaka‘ako (KPOK) exists to empower houseless individuals by fostering healing, connection, and self-determination. We create inclusive environments (whether traditional, transitional, or unconventional) where people can live, contribute, and thrive. Through community-led solutions, we challenge societal norms, expand access to care, and cultivate spaces of belonging that honor each person's dignity and potential.
Our Mission
Ka Po‘e o Kaka‘ako (KPOK) exists to empower houseless individuals by fostering healing, connection, and self-determination. We create inclusive environments (whether traditional, transitional, or unconventional) where people can live, contribute, and thrive. Through community-led solutions, we challenge societal norms, expand access to care, and cultivate spaces of belonging that honor each person's dignity and potential.
Our Priorities
Hoʻohui Kaiāulu
Strong social bonds improve mental health, reduce stress, and foster resilience. We strengthen community when everyone has a place to live, contribute, and thrive.
KPOK leaders pau hana after a day of meetings with community stakeholders.
Houseless individuals work with their neighborhood board and meet with the Governor's Housing & Homelessness Dept. to discuss establishing a Kauhale in Kaka‘ako.
Mana Kūpono
Empowering houseless as leaders in their own care we move from a model of charity and towards one of solidarity, self-determination, and sustainability.
Hana Hoʻōla
There is healing in service. By helping others and giving back, individuals are able to find connection, purpose, and hope.
KPOK community members return to cleanup their community after being swept despite not being able to move back.
Service providers, H.E.L.P. Outreach, volunteers, community stakeholders, and government officials gather to support KPOK and their first service event organized.
Ho'okō Lawelawe
Everyone deserves the right to access care and services when needed—and the liberty to choose the kind of support that's right for them.
Our Values
Ke Ola
Life
Aloha
Love; Mutual Respect
Pono
Equity; Balance
'Ohana
Family; Belonging
Kuleana
Responsibility; Accountability
Malama
To Care For; Protect
Kūʻokoʻa
Self-Determination; Agency
Kaiāulu
Community &
Social Inclusion
Kaulike
Social Justice & Equity
Haʻaheo
Pride; Dignity
Meet Our Co-Founders
John Mantanona
Co-Founder
Lindsay Ann Pacheco
Co-Founder
John Kaulupali
Co-Founder
Aura Reyes
Co-Founder
Meet Our Team
Amber Coiley
President/CEO
Aura Reyes
Vice-President/COO
Events Coordinator
Larry Reyes II
Board Member
Equipment & Logistics Manager
Peer Navigator/Support
Savannah Mendonca
Board Member
Peer Navigator/Support
Community Outreach