Major Milestones

1982

Maui's Sons and Daughters of the 442nd, the first such organization of its kind in the nation, is founded.

1985

Maui's Sons and Daughters of the 442nd approve formation of the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center.

1987

Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. grants 2.024 acres.

1991

The Center hosts a kick-off dinner attended by over 1,000 people at the Maui Intercontinental Resort. The late actor, Pat Morita, was master of ceremonies.

1992

Maui Planning Commission approves changes in zoning for our site.
Nisei Veterans Memorial Center is granted tax-exempt 501(c)3 status by the Internal Revenue Service.

1995

Maui's Sons and Daughters of the 442nd changes its name to Maui's Sons and Daughters of the Nisei Veterans to include offspring of all Nisei units.

Center receives a $1 million grant from the State of Hawaii.

1996

Center announces plans to build a playfield/park, museum and nonprofit office space.

1997

Center receives a $500,000 grant from the County of Maui.

Project receives approval by the Maui/Lanai Burial Council, Department of Land and Natural Resources, State Historic Preservation Division.

2000

Concrete retaining walls on the back boundary and keystone wall on the front boundary are built.

2002

Project out to bid, but winning bid far exceeds construction estimates. Plans put on hold.

2003

Center unveils intergenerational concept.

Maui Planning Commission endorses new "living memorial" design

2004

Center announces sufficient funding for preschool and sitework. County issues building permits, construction begins.

2005

"Pour the Slab" celebration held as State of Hawaii releases $1.5 million for adult day care building. Center raises additional $1 million from individuals, corporations and foundations.

2006

Grand opening of the first phase of our Center, which includes the preschool and adult day care building

2007

Center receives $300,000 from County of Maui for Education Building.

2008

Center receives $750,000 from State of Hawaii for Education Building.

2009

Center raises additional $350,000 from individuals, corporations, foundations. Center receives building permit. Groundbreaking on June 29th on our Education Building.