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 can be a symbol of both a 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 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 offer support for adult cancer patients undergoing active treatment, focusing on socioeconomically challenged and underrepresented AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander) residents of Hawai‘i, along with their immediate ʻohana of young Keiki (18 & under). This includes personalized fun days for the entire family.

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

HOW CANCER IS AFFECTING THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS AND THE 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 @ililanifoundation for resources to share with cancer survivors and their families, and to see updates on the ‘ohana we’re helping thanks to your generosity.

This website is currently under construction, and we hope to have it fully operational soon.

Make an impact today

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