Ililani Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit committed to supporting ʻohana in Hawaiʻi impacted by cancer through the provision of unexpected blessings and resources.

ILILANI FOUNDATION

Ililani means "unexpected rain" in ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i (the Hawaiian Language). In Hawaiian culture, rain carries deep significance and can be a symbol of both hardship and a blessing.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can feel like facing a dark storm. The Ililani Foundation is here to bring unexpected blessings of hope and support to every patient and their ʻohana.

The three pillars of rain in our logo represent the three ways we aim to support families:

  • Resources: We provide resources and information to help educate and benefit patients and their families.

  • Relief Care: We provide support for adult cancer patients actively undergoing treatment, with a focus on socio-economically challenged local communities in Hawai‘i, primarily comprising AANHPI (Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders). Our services extend to their immediate ʻohana, including young keiki (18 and under), and feature personalized fun days for the entire family.

  • Scholarships: We provide scholarships for higher education and trade school assistance to socio-economically challenged AANHPI keiki who have lost a parent to cancer.

HOW CANCER IS AFFECTING THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS AND THE LOCAL AANHPI POPULATION

  • This devastating disease impacts approximately 7,393 individuals yearly in Hawaiʻi (University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center, 2024).

  • Cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death in Hawaiʻi (DOH, Death Record Data, 2022).

  • Between 2000 and 2021, diagnoses for breast cancer among AANHPI women under 50 rose by 52%, with increases also observed in older age groups (National Cancer Institute)

  • Since 2012, there’s been a 2.5 - 2.57% increase per year in breast cancer for AANHPI women under 50. (American Cancer Society, Oct 2024)

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The Ililani Foundation provides resources, fun day events, and educational assistance thanks to the generosity of private donors, businesses, and organizations. 

We would love for you to partner with us—whether through a monthly donation or any amount you feel inspired to give. Your support can make a real difference for cancer patients and their young ʻohana in Hawai‘i. 

Every contribution is tax-deductible, and we ensure that every dollar is used wisely and transparently. Thank you for considering the opportunity to join us in this significant mission. Together, we can create a meaningful impact and make a difference in the lives of others.

Follow us on Instagram or Facebook for resources to share with cancer survivors and families, to hear stories from us and other survivors, and to stay updated on the ‘ohana we’re supporting, all made possible by your generosity.

MAKE AN IMPACT TODAY

Mahalo for your kōkua (help) to support families in Hawai’i affected by cancer.