Hawai'i Encourages Long-Term Work Stays To Boost Tourism Industry

Hawai’i Encourages Long-Term Work Stays To Boost Tourism Industry

November 30, 2020 ctn_admin

Hawai‘i is encouraging long-term work stays to boost their tourism industry.

As winter approaches, the State of Hawai‘i has announced Movers & Shakas, a new remote work program aimed at individuals – former Hawai‘i residents and those from out-of-state who want to work remotely from the islands. The program incorporates a unique “give and get” approach, seeking those who are passionate about the values of Hawai‘i and who have the skills and willingness to contribute to the local community.

Remote workers interested in joining the first cohort of the program are encouraged to fill out an online application by December 15, 2020; 50 applicants who meet the qualifications will be chosen for the first cohort and will receive a free round-trip ticket to O‘ahu. Subsequent applicants will be accepted to the program on a rolling basis. Hawai‘i currently has the lowest rate per capita of COVID infections in the country, also making it one of the safest places to live and work.

The program was launched through a partnership with the Hawai‘i state government, business leaders, alumni associations at schools and colleges, and founding organizations including the Central Pacific Bank Foundation, Hawai‘i Executive Collaborative, Island Holdings, Inkinen, and FCH Enterprises (parent company of Zippy’s restaurants). These partners developed Movers & Shakas to help provide some relief to Hawai‘i’s tourism industry, a main economic driver for the state that has been impacted due to the pandemic, while also creating a way to increase knowledge resources by connecting local and out-of-state professionals.

“We wanted to help fill the gap from the decrease we’ve experienced in the 7-day visitors to our state,” said Jason Higa, CEO of FCH Enterprises, parent company of Zippy’s, and leader who has spearheaded the program. “Now that many people have the choice to work remotely, there’s an opportunity for former local residents to return home and for out-of-state individuals and families to live and work from Hawai‘i for a longer period of time.

“We believe this program will attract many former Hawai‘i residents and professionals seeking a safe, warm environment to continue living their normal lives while contributing to the Hawai‘i community.”

Rainbow Falls, Hilo, Hawai'i Big Island — Rainbow Falls, Hilo, Hawai’i Big Island. Photo Courtesy Hawai’i Tourism Authority

About Movers & Shakas

The program will first launch on O‘ahu, with the first 50 qualified applicants receiving a free round-trip to the island. Future applicants will be accepted on a rolling basis and will eventually expand to neighboring islands at a later date.

Program participants will receive access to promotions, special program benefits and opportunities to interact with the local community. Participants will also be asked to contribute their skill sets and knowledge to the community and businesses during their time in Hawai‘i.

“Give” Program Elements

Applicants to the program take a “Pledge to Our Keiki”, making a commitment to respect the culture and natural resources of Hawai‘i during their stay. The program also includes a skill match component, wherein Movers & Shakas participants commit several hours a week to a Hawai‘i nonprofit. The participants will apply their expertise to strengthen local communities.

“Get” Program Elements

In return for their volunteer work, Movers & Shakas program participants receive exclusive discounts on month-to-month accommodations, flights, restaurants, attractions and other services they need while living in Hawai‘i. Participants in the program also have access to networking opportunities with Hawai‘i business professionals and with other Movers & Shakas program participants.