Standing Room Only: Hawaii Boys YIP Kicks Off with Energy and Excitement!

The 2025 Hawaii Boys Youth Impact Program launched in unforgettable style—with a packed house and electric energy at Draft Night! On June 11, parents, supporters, student-athletes, and volunteers gathered at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa to kick off our 8th year of empowering young boys through mentorship, academics, and athletics.

This year, we welcomed a wave of new families thrilled to enroll their children in the program—excited for the chance to connect with military mentors and engage in dynamic STEM learning. Returning families were just as energized, hearing about the fresh updates and expanded programming designed to keep their children inspired and challenged.

One of the most memorable moments of the night? Watching each participant proudly walk down to sign their Letter of Commitment, greeted by cheering mentors and University of Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors Football Team members. Each child held up the symbolic #8 jersey, representing the strength and legacy of our eighth year.

And the excitement didn’t stop there. On the morning of June 16, the energy surged again as boys filled the athletics auditorium, buzzing with anticipation to meet their teammates, bond with their mentors—and yes, get fired up about rockets!

The Hawaii Boys Youth Impact Program runs through June 27, featuring hands-on STEM projects, inspiring guest speakers, and unforgettable experiences that aim to ignite curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to future possibilities.

Let’s make this the best year yet!