CAMP MEKOKIKO is the only camp and retreat property owned by the Hawaii District United Methodist Church.  Mekokiko means "Methodist" in Hawaiian.

The camp is a 36.5-acre mountain site on the lower slopes of Mauna Kea at the northern end of the Hamakua coast on the Big Island.  Located on the windward side, the camp is lush and green, with over two miles of walking trails.  The experience of the outdoors and nature is easily obtained, and at 1,800 feet elevation, the vistas are rewarding.

DEVELOPMENT plans are complete.  We have a comprehensive business plan, a conservation plan in progress, and a master site plan.  The completed camp will have beds for 40 campers housed in cottages and bunkhouses, or tent camping in the isolated but safe and secure back of the property.  We plan a playing field, outdoor fire site, cultural exhibits, a pavilion and chapel, and a modern conference center and kitchen. The goal is to serve not only Hawaii but also the Pacific Basin for retreats and conferences, as well as camping.

WHILE this is a United Methodist property, Methodists do not expect to be the predominant users.  Usage will be widely promoted to other churches, schools and non-profit organizations.

FUNDING for construction will come mainly through a two-year capital campaign, in part because our special permit for the land use from the State Land Use Commission requires completion by 2012.  This is contrary to first expectations some ten years ago.  Thus we are committed to a capital campaign over two years to raise 70% of the needed funds.  The campaign will seek gifts and commitments not only from United Methodists but also from other churches and target users.

IN BRIEF, development costs will be approximately $2.5 million.  We need $1.5 million in outright gifts over the next two years, and anticipate grants of half a million dollars or more within four years.  This planning takes into account that qualified volunteers will provide much of the labor.

VOLUNTEERS will find working at Mekokiko challenging and fun.

Volunteer opportunities include building construction, road and trail maintenance, landscaping and outdoor recreational site development.  Lighter work includes meal preparation, painting and gardening. 

Volunteers set their own agenda including personal time for meditation or worship, recreation and touring.  It is requested that work be considered for half of your stay at Mekokiko.

Volunteers must assume their own costs except for housing, which will be in the lodge, or cottages and bunkhouses as they are built.  Costs include transportation and meals, which can be cooked at the lodge.  Groups are limited to a maximum of 12 overnight until facilities other than the lodge are completed.

YOUR COMMITMENT is personal as well as church-based.  We believe that individuals will be representatives of their church, and will bring an addition to their talents, the "eyes and ears" of their church membership and represent them with their help.

Contact us via email at exodustrl@prodigy.net, phone at (808) 776-1531, or explore our website at www.hawaiipacificmethodists.org.  You will receive a response from Project Manger Reverend Ted Lesnett.