Our Purpose

The Makanalani Internship program exists to make disciples. We provide a space for young adults to grow in their relationship with the Lord by spending time in the Word, Serving, and living in Christian Community. Our greatest desire is to see young men and women leave our program with the habits and knowledge to make spiritual formation a part of their everyday lives, rooted in their faith and ready to serve the Kingdom of God wherever life takes them.

Everything we do revolves around our 3 core pillars. Serve, Grow, Community.

S E R V E 

Mark 10: 42 – 45

“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

The bible calls us as Christians to serve one another, and we have put a heavy emphasis on service in our internship program. Makanalani Interns have three service days each week devoted to supporting the ministry that takes place at the Kid’s House. 

Our various service days are as follows:

  • Makanalani Kids House – Interns work intimately with Makanalani’s active guests by assisting with games, serving meals, or whatever else the present group may need help with (including playing gaga ball and a giant slip ‘n slide with the kids!). If the house is vacant on a service day, Interns keep the house clean for the next group.
  • Production Team – Interns, using Makanalani’s home grown fruits, produce delicious whipped honeys, jams, and other tasty products to take to various markets and local businesses. 
  • Makanalani Farmer’s Market – Interns will interact with both local and tourist customers to sell our locally made products. 
  • The Farm – Interns step in with our farm’s local arborist to help keep the farm looking fresh by harvesting citrus,  general landscaping, and helping our shepherd care for the sheep.
  • JoJos Shave Ice – Interns get their hands wet… or sticky! Shaving Hawaiian shave ice for Kauai’s frequent visitors.

G R O W 

Colossians 2: 6 – 7

“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”

Having a personal relationship with the Lord is imperative for all believers. Makanalani Interns are heavily encouraged to pursue a deeper relationship with Jesus and have designated times carved out of their schedule that cultivate both individual and communal spiritual growth.

Throughout the week Interns will get involved in various activities that contribute to spiritual growth:

  • Each morning, Interns practice the discipline of daily quiet time where they spend one-on-one time with the Lord through reading scripture, going through our faith guide and other devotionals, journaling and prayer.
  • At the start of the session, Interns are placed in a small group led by an Alaka’i (Intern Leader). They participate in weekly, scripture-based small group meetings and times of fellowship. 
  • Scripture ,Worship, Prayer-One morning of the week we have a time of worship, corporate prayer time and a devotion written and presented by an intern.
  • Interns attend Sunday morning church services weekly. Wednesday night bible studies at church are optional, but recommended.
  • Scripture of the week is an intern-led time where Interns take turns sharing a scripture of their choosing with the group. 

C O M M U N I T Y 

Romans 12: 4 – 6

“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith”

The bible tells us we are a part of the body of Christ, and we feel it is important to be unified as believers and work in harmony for the Lord. Makanalani Interns are immersed in a rich community with their peers by living life together during their session on Kauai. Interns get to know each other well by serving, eating dinner, resting, exploring, surfing, learning, and living altogether!

Every Friday is our designated Ohana Day, where we read through our book-study and explore the island together. These days usually include surfing, paddle boarding, hiking, lei-making, and more. 

How does it work?

We have 3 Serve Sessions per year, each one varying in length. Tuition for a serve session is $2,450. Housing, utilities, meals, learning materials, and a $300 refundable security deposit (liability, property damage, etc.) are included in the cost of tuition. We get two and a half days a week to enjoy island life, go to the beach, serve in a local church, and rest!

How do I apply?

Click HERE or go to our APPLY NOW page to submit an application. An application fee of $35 is due at the time of submission. After submission, we will be in contact within two weeks on next steps for your application.

For more questions…

Visit our FAQ’s page or email us at servemakanalani@gmail.com.