About Habele
A connection
that continues.
Founded in 2006 by former Peace Corps volunteers, Habele turns a lasting connection to Micronesia into practical support for island families.
Tuition scholarships and Young Island Readers are at the heart of our work, alongside continuing support for MicSem and canoe carvers.
A name with
a future in it.
Habele is an Ulithian word—a future form of “to be.” It also carries the sense of a wish made real: bringing a dream or ambition into being.
It is a fitting name for work built around what students and families hope to achieve.
How we work
Practical help.
Lasting relationships.
Families, educators, and local partners know their communities. Their knowledge shapes how Habele helps.
Start with people.
Listen to families and island partners. Build on their efforts, experience, and ambitions.
Make support useful.
Help with school costs, send books children can keep, and support people who preserve and share knowledge.
Keep commitments.
Focus on work we can sustain over time, use resources carefully, and report what that support makes possible.
There is a place for you here
However your connection begins.
Perhaps you served in the Peace Corps, worked in the islands, or heard about Micronesia through someone you love. Perhaps you are discovering the islands for the first time. You can be part of this work.
Our story & past projects
Built over time.
Habele grew from personal relationships with island students and families. The Fund was established in 2006 to carry that support forward.
Over the years, Habele’s work has included school and library book donations, robotics, weaving, adze-blade projects, and sports. Those efforts remain part of the record.
Understanding the record
Our current focus is scholarships, Young Island Readers, and continuing support for MicSem and canoe carvers. Earlier posts document the work as it happened.
Our former robotics program is part of that history. Habele still makes and donates shirts for the national robotics team each year.
Our sister nonprofit
Looking for the history
behind the work?
Habele Institute offers research, reference materials, and analysis on Micronesia. Explore island histories, languages, traditional skills, and contemporary life.
The Fund provides practical support for students and communities. The Institute is a place to learn more about the islands.
People & accountability
Know who you support.
The Habele Outer Island Education Fund is a U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
EIN: 51-0581553
Contact & help
Let’s get you to
the right place.
Scholarships
Application questions and current scholars.
Books & YIR
Enrollment, delivery questions, or donated books.
Giving & general inquiries
Questions about gifts or Habele’s work.
Mailing address
Habele Outer Island Education Fund
701 Gervais Street, Suite 150-244
Columbia, SC 29201
United States