Project Leimamo (A vision on a Mission)

Aloha, Kakau

To the most bravest and nicest people on the North Shore. The Shark Encounter was the most exciting, thrilling and very educational experience, I have ever encountered. Project Leimamo was designed to practice the Hawaiian values with Substance Abuse Treatment Programs, from around the island and since 2003 we have grown to almost 200 clients from 13yrs to 60 years and older. One of the Hawaiian value that is the most important value of all is Ho 'ihi respect), and your educational program that you presented to us was unforgettable, that through the letters of the teenagers, you will read how learning respect for them was important. When you learn how to give Ho 'ihi in return you will learn how to respect yourself. This project helps to connect them to a spiritual experience as they learn to aloha and malama the aina (Love and care for the land).
Your educational program has surely taught us that, every living thing on this earth has a purpose, even the sharks. I learned that without them in the ocean the ecosystem will start to change. The sharks, eat the sick fish, to stop them from spreading disease to the school. I believe that caring people like you guys, help your youth by educating them on a better way of living, and that life's natural high is the best thing for them, not drugs.

I believe that they also learned, that as the sharks, they also have a purpose in life, and for them, not to give up an continue to give respect, and in return they will receive Ho 'ihi.
This experience for the clients at the Bobby Benson Center was a once in a lifetime that I know they will never forget. Project Leimamo wishes you many safe journeys in to your quest, to help the education of the life style of the shark species.

May the Aloha Spirit continue to be with all of you and your Ohana

Me Kealoha, Pumehana

Mahalo
Project Leimamo (A Vision on a Mission)

Jackery Burgess-Manoha
(Ho'okele - Navigator)