Our Mission and Vision

Our mission is to provide a continuum of support that empowers Hawaii’s street youth to move beyond homelessness. We envision a community where there is no youth homelessness.

Racial Equity 2030

We are pleased to announce that “Kawailoa: a transformative indigenous model to replace youth incarceration,” under Partners In Development Foundation, was awarded a $20m grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Lever For Change. The project aims to replace youth incarceration with a Native Hawaiian restorative system.

About RYSE

Residential Youth Services & Empowerment is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization operating a youth access center and shelter services in Kailua, Oahu. From 8am to 8pm seven days a week, youth ages 14–24 can use our drop-in services free of charge. Our goal is to provide safety and help youth get off the streets, so that they can live and thrive as healthy, happy young adults.

Programs & Services

Shelter and Housing

RYSE operates 1 emergency housing shelter and 7 housing programs for youth ages 18-24 on the island of Oahu. 

Medical Clinic & Behavioral Health

RYSE supports youth with medical appointments and testing, along with courses and counseling to promote mental wellness.

Education & Employment

RYSE provides education and employment counseling, GED classes, driver license help, financial literacy courses, and more.

Outreach & Diversion

RYSE operates  a mobile outreach team available 24/7 to reach youth where they are, when they need help. Call/ text 808-861-6606.

Access Center at Kawailoa

RYSE’s Kawailoa Access Center is open daily 6am-6pm, offering  food, hot meals, showers, laundry, WiFi, hygiene supplies,  & more.

2025 Annual Report: Empowering Hawaii's Youth

RYSE Hawaii Team

RYSE Hawaii Graduates

Together, we can end the cycle of homelessness. We appreciate your support, particularly during this global pandemic that has put a strain on all of us. Even small contributions have a major impact at our organization, and we thank you for considering a donation when you are able to.

Careers with RYSE

RYSE is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sex, ancestry, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, or military status.

We believe in second chances and value applicants with a colorful past. Individuals with lived experience in homelessness, foster care, and the criminal justice system are highly encouraged to apply.

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