HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union is celebrating the one-year anniversary of its Life Matters Collective, an inaugural partnership showcasing both long-standing business partnerships and valued community partners of Hawaiʻi’s largest credit union.

Last August, HawaiiUSA debuted the Collective, launching a collaboration with Maui ʻOma Coffee Roasting Company of Kahului. A custom coffee blend, Imua Coffee, was created and introduced to the market. Sales proceeds of $19,118.40 benefitted Imua Family Services, a Maui nonprofit serving the early childhood development needs of children and their families by providing inclusive care services and play programs.

The coffee was sold through Maui ʻOma’s website and retail locations as well as all HawaiiUSA branches statewide. Imua Family Services also sold the coffee at its Play Imua store in Māʻalaea. The store opened last year in response to the Maui wildfires to provide a place where the children affected by the tragedy could “shop” for free toys and merchandise. Proceeds from that location also helped Imua Family Services meet its mission, especially in the wake of last year’s wildfire disaster.

“This has been an extremely meaningful partnership and a good fit for not only our agency, but our demographic,” said Dean Wong, executive director of Imua Family Services. “The collective has enabled us to reach one of our goals of establishing partnerships with local businesses that benefit our community.”

Maria Holmes, director of sales and marketing at Maui ʻOma, said the Collective has helped with healing after the Maui wildfires.

“Maui ʻOma lost 34 customers in August 2023,” Holmes said. “The timing of this program helped us through a difficult period. The additional revenue helped us stay afloat during an unstable period and has served as a good model that led to further opportunities with other nonprofits on Maui.”

Reflecting on one year of the Life Matters Collective, Tanya Lee, vice president of Member Growth Services at HawaiiUSA, said: “Last year’s devastation to Lahaina dramatically increased the needs of Imua Family Services to support impacted families. The Collective launched at an opportune time to introduce an innovative opportunity to forge new community relationships between businesses and nonprofits that add value to their communities.”

Imua Blend Coffee will continue to be available at all Maui ʻOma locations or online at Mauioma.com/imua. Most HawaiiUSA locations on Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi Island, and Oʻahu will also continue to sell the coffee until this fall.

Queen Kaʻahumanu Center welcomes Linx Hawaiʻi, a unique jewelry boutique founded by local entrepreneur Nicole Ibarra. Linx Hawaiʻi offers an “ultimate permanent jewelry experience,” specializing in custom-designed pieces that cater to individual style and preference, according to an announcement.

Linx Hawaiʻi provides a range of jewelry options, including permanent jewelry, crafted from high-quality 14k gold-filled and sterling silver materials. Customers can design their own bracelets and necklaces, selecting chains, charms and connectors that are custom-fit with the option to add a clasp or secure the piece with a jump ring that is micro-welded.

Nicole Ibarra initially started Linx Hawaiʻi as a side venture, making appearances at pop-up events. This soon evolved into collaborations with local hotels, and now, the opening of a permanent location at Queen Kaʻahumanu Center.

“This is what we’ve always worked toward—this is the ultimate goal. We wanted the mall experience where people can find us easily,” said Ibarra.

In addition to custom jewelry, Linx Hawaiʻi offers a variety of pre-made pieces, including Tahitian pearls, Edison pearls, jade, pīkake beads, and preserved crown flowers. Beyond jewelry, Linx Hawaiʻi sells a collection of totes, pouches, and button-up tops featuring locally designed patterns. 

“We are delighted to welcome Linx Hawaiʻi to our center,” said Kauwela Bisquera, General Manager of Queen Kaʻahumanu Center. “Nicole’s creativity and passion for her work add a special touch to our retail offerings. Linx Hawaiʻi brings something unique to our community, and we’re excited to see how it enhances the shopping experience for both locals and visitors alike.”

Linx Hawaiʻi is now open and is located on the first floor between Macy’s and Koho’s. For more information, visit linxhawaii.com.