POIPU — “A slow resurrection.”
Those are the best words to describe how groups of volunteers and benefactors have transformed a crumbling camping facility located in the crisp air of Kokee State Park into a clean, attractive and safe resource for groups of every age and size.
“It’s been a long road,” said Ira McRoberts, a board member of the nonprofit Camp Hale Koa Association and the key player in reconstruction efforts.
Built from left-over World War II barracks in the late 1940s, the nine original cabins that once housed campers had diminished to eight wobbly skeletons when the newly formed CHKA started refurbishment efforts in 2012.
Bit by bit, cabin by cabin, this group of youth workers and businessmen managed to inspire hundreds of volunteers to help transform cabins, derelict buildings and bathhouses into functional and comfortable places to bring groups to.
With inital resources by way of a grant from the Cook Foundation, the team hopes to finish restoring the last three cabins by the end of this year.
To that end, a benefit concert featuring the Portland, Ore.-based duo The Talbott Brothers, as well as Jess Penner and Aowl Owen, is being held to help with funds to button up construction costs.
The concert kicks off on Sunday, March 17, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Kauai Christian Fellowship, 2731 Ala Kinoiki, Poipu.
In addition to music, a silent auction will be held, and camp-style food will be available. All are invited.
Info: www.camphalekoa.com
