Last November, nearly three months after devastating wildfires flared on Maui, I visited the island, hoping to show my love for a place that had given me so much.

While there, I met many powerful people: Cultural leaders working to preserve Hawaiian culture. Chefs and volunteer coordinators feeding their communities. Ecologists educating visitors about responsible tourism. And so many other great people who, despite their own hardships, extended kindness and aloha.

Their collective messages for travelers returning to Maui: Show empathy, support small businesses, engage in (and help preserve) Hawaiian culture, care for Maui’s environment, and consider volunteering (the Malama Hawai‘i program, created by the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau, facilitates opportunities).

Meanwhile, Maui residents still need help. For those inclined to donate, a few worthy orgs: The Maui Strong Fund continues to provide long-term support for people affected by the fires, and Hua Momona Foundation partners with Hungry Heroes Hawaii to address Maui’s ongoing food-security concerns.

For more on my experience, read “Once More, with Feeling,” published in the March/April 2024 issue of Virtuoso, The Magazine.