Kona Community Policing Officers Partner with Local Organizations for Successful Beach Cleanup Effort

Officers with Hawai‘i Police Department’s Kona Community Policing Section recently partnered with the Kailua Village Business Improvement District (KVBID), Youth With a Mission, and community volunteers to conduct a beach cleanup at Kalaepa‘akai Beach in Kailua-Kona.

The event, held on Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, aimed to protect the shoreline environment and marine ecosystem while strengthening partnerships between police and the community.

Approximately 20 volunteers participated, including six individuals experiencing homelessness who are part of the HONOUR Project, a local initiative that promotes positive engagement and community service. Together, volunteers collected and bagged trash and debris scattered along the beach area.

The cleanup was a great success, providing officers an opportunity to connect with community members while contributing to the health and beauty of the coastline.

Police extend a heartfelt mahalo to Ross Wilson and Kehau Gomes of KVBID for inviting officers to participate and supporting community-based efforts that make West Hawai‘i a better place for all.