Vision:
- Improve the community by promoting economic independence and sustainability.
Mission Statement
- The mission of MEO is to strengthen the community while helping people in need restore their hope, empowering them to reach their potential and enrich their lives.
Core Values:
- Teamwork
- Integrity
- Personal Excellence
- Empathy
- Creativity
- Flexibility
- Respect
Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) is a nonprofit Community Action Agency dedicated to helping people become stable, self-reliant, and economically secure. Our programs continually adapt to meet the evolving needs of our community.
In partnership with more than 25 community organizations, MEO works every day to help people and change lives. Every MEO program is a tangible expression of the national Promise of Community Action.
For more than 60 years, MEO has been “helping people…changing lives.” From transportation and early childhood education to small business development, we collaborate with both the public and private sectors to strengthen Maui County.
What We Do
MEO provides practical tools and support through five key departments:
Business Development Center
We support small business owners and entrepreneurs with:
- Business plan development
- Start-up and expansion training
- Credit assessment
- Access to microloans and agriculture grants
Community Services
We offer a wide range of services, including:
- Employment training and job placement
- Acculturation and education programs
- Rental, weatherization, and energy assistance
- Senior club coordination that promotes education, socialization, and access to fresh fruits and vegetables
- Emergency assistance to help individuals and families stabilize and recover from disaster
Early Childhood Services
We promote high-quality early childhood education for children ages 12 months to 5 years, including:
- Head Start Preschool, which focuses on educating children while strengthening and empowering their families
- Kahi Kamalii Infant Toddler Center, provides quality childcare to support working families
Transportation Services
We provide safe, reliable rides for:
- Medical appointments
- Work and school
- Adult day care
- Essential shopping and daily needs
Our fleet includes both standard and wheelchair lift–equipped vehicles.
Youth Services
We help young people succeed in school and in life through:
- Hands-on opportunities to build life skills
- Workforce preparation and career exploration
- Community service and leadership activities
Prevention of underage drinking, substance abuse, tobacco use, teen pregnancy, and teen suicide is woven throughout our programs to help youth avoid risky behaviors.
Our Philosophy
MEO is committed to providing tools for living, earning, self-reliance, and community involvement. At the heart of every program is a simple belief:
Rather than giving people a fish, it is better to teach them how to fish for themselves.
