Since the coronavirus hit the U.S., roughly 40% of U.S. employees now work from home. If you’re one of them, you may fantasize about trading your boring apartment walls and modest desk for tropical air and sandy beaches.
A new program, Movers and Shakas, offers just that: A free round trip to Hawaii for remote workers in exchange for a few hours of community service.
The program was launched through a partnership that includes the Hawaii state government, business leaders, alum associations, and organizations, including the Central Pacific Bank Foundation, Hawaii Executive Collaborative, Island Holdings, Inkinen, and FCH Enterprises, the parent company of Zippy’s restaurants, according to a press release. The goal? Diversifying Hawaii’s economy amid business shutdowns and decreased tourism.
“Now that many people have the choice to work remotely, there’s an opportunity for former residents to return home and for out-of-state individuals and families to live and work from Hawaii for a longer period,” said Jason Higa, CEO of FCH Enterprises. “We believe this program will attract many former Hawaii residents and professionals seeking a safe, warm environment to continue living their normal lives while contributing to the Hawaii community.”
So what’s the catch, you’re asking? There isn’t one, but it does require some planning (and maybe saving) to participate. Here’s a closer look at the initiative.
How Do I Qualify For A Free Trip To Hawaii?
First, you must be a U.S. resident at least 18 years old to apply. It would help if you also were employed and worked remotely or had the option to do so. Current residents of Hawaii can’t participate at this time.
You must be able to move to Oahu within a month if you’re selected for the program and stay there full-time for at least 30 consecutive days. You must also commit 15 hours a week to volunteer with local partners, including the Chamber of Commerce, Girl Scouts of Hawaii, and the Pacific-Asian Center for Entrepreneurship at UH Mānoa. Program participants are also asked to sign the “Pledge to Our Keiki,” a commitment to respectfully treating the lands and waters. You have until Dec. 15 to apply for the program.
Fifty participants will be chosen (selection criteria are still in the works), and additional participants will be added on a rolling basis. Those who get picked receive free round-trip airfare to Hawaii and other perks. Members of the same household, such as couples and families, are encouraged to apply, too. However, if you have pets you plan to bring, remember that traveling to the island and securing housing will require extra time and planning.
