MĀLŌ E LELEI! – HELLO!
Welcome to MALO, or Motivating Action Leadership Opportunity, a nonprofit organization that serves Tongan Americans in the Inland Empire area through youth mentorship, job readiness, resource literacy, and cultural gathering events.
Building a Healthier Community Together: COVID-19 and Beyond
Although Governor Newsom has ended California’s State of Emergency as a result of COVID-19, MALO continues to recognize the efforts of local organizations that have helped their communities from 2020 to now, as we continue to support the Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander populations affected by this crisis.
LEARN MORE ABOUT IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON NHPIAdditionally, we are continuing to celebrate the beautiful blend of culture between the Inland Empire community and Tongan and American identities. Scroll down to see all the work we’ve been doing.
WHAT WE DO
“MALO takes action towards positive change throughout Ontario and rest of the Inland Empire. We nurture connections between Tongans and their long time cultural community to keep the Tongan culture alive.
Through motivating actions, radical leadership, and learning opportunities, MALO continues to develop ways to share the beautiful culture of Tonga. Our positive change is fueled by the community’s collective desire to not lose our identities as proud Tongan/Tongan Americans.”
Early 2017
MALO est.
Tongan American community members come together to create an organization that serves the
Tongan and Pacific Islander populations of the Inland Empire.
March 2017
May 2018
Ontario Park Performance
MALO gives an opportunity for Tongan American youth to perform and share their culture
at a new Ontario park.
May 2018
NAISA Opening
MALO community members opened for the annual Native American Indigenous Studies
Association with a speech and māʻuluʻulu performance.
July 2018
First Ontario Independence Parade
MALO organizes community members to proudly represent the Tongan American identity
for the first time at the Ontario Independence Day Parade.
Early 2020
Census Efforts
We boost the 2020 Census counting in hard-to-count Tongan and Tongan American
populations in the Inland Empire.
April 2020 – Present
Pandemic Assistance
MALO began collecting donations (PPE and Food) to distribute throughout the Inland Empire
to help Tongan families with day-to-day needs as we fight COVID-19.
January 2021 – Present
Vaccine Clinics
MALO continues to do COVID testing and vaccine outreach as we fight for immunity
for all our community members.
July 2022
IKUNA Backpack Distribution
MALO held its 5th annual IKUNA backpack distribution in July 2022!
It was combined with a vaccine site and a wellness fair, and
MALO was so ecstatic to see all the love and support.
October 2022 – Present
Zumba Socials
MALO begins to hold Zumba socials three times a week for the community
to come together, exercise, enjoy light refreshments, and socialize!
Spring 2023 – Present
Kisina Health
Bridging the gap between our community, our data, and local resources for Tongan and Pacific Islander communty in the Inland Empire region.
Ko hono fakafehokotaki‘i ‘a e vā ‘o hotau komiunitī, hotau talaʹ, mo e ma‘u‘anga me‘a
fakakolo ki he Tongaʹ mo e komiunitī kakai Pasifikiʹ ‘i he vāhenga Inland Empire.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Healthy Heroes Day: Empowering Our Community Through Health & Fun!
Our second annual Healthy Heroes Day is all about empowering families and community members to unleash their superpowers! This fun-filled event offers free COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, health and community resources, food, games, and treats for all ages. Held at the First United Methodist Church in Ontario, this day brings together families, local organizations, and health services to promote well-being and unity. Whether you’re looking to boost your health or just have a fun day out with the community, this event has something for everyone.
Join us in celebrating our local heroes and making our community healthier and stronger!
September 21, September 28, October 5, October 19, October 26, November 2, November 9, November 16, November 23
10 AM – 12 PM @ Walker Lounge 333 N College Way Claremont, CA 91711
Lunch @ Frary Dining Hall with students & volunteers at 12 PM!
Saturday Tongan Education Program (STEP) Supported by The Asian American Resource Center (AARC) at Pomona College and Motivating Action Leadership Opportunity (MALO) Contact: saturdaytonganeducationag mail.com for more information
2nd Annual Family Health and Wellness Fair: Inland Empire Check-Up Day:
A Community United: 2nd Annual Family Health & Wellness Fair
On Saturday, May 4th, 2024 the community gathered for the 2nd Annual Family Health and Wellness Fair: Inland Empire Check-Up Day at the First United Methodist Church of Ontario. This event was a major step toward empowering families in the Inland Empire with essential health services and resources.
Free Health Screenings: Making a Difference
The fair provided free dental, and vision to all attendees on a first-come, first-served basis. These services were offered in partnership with several local health organizations, including Healing California, San Bernardino County Public Health, and Friends of Family Health Center. Attendees had the opportunity to receive critical health check-ups in a supportive and accessible environment, ensuring that even those without regular healthcare access could take charge of their health.
Vendors and Resources: Bringing the Community Together
Beyond health screenings, the event featured various vendors and community resources. Organizations such as ParkTree Community Health Center, California WIC, and Equus Workforce Solutions were on-site, offering vital information on health, nutrition, workforce development, and family support programs. These resources helped connect families with long-term solutions to improve their well-being.
A Day Full of Support and Fun
In addition to health services, the fair also included activities for families to enjoy. Local vendors, including Good Smoke Better Eats, provided food to the first 150 attendees, ensuring that no one left hungry. The event fostered a welcoming atmosphere where community members could relax, connect with one another, and celebrate their commitment to better health.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Mission
The 2nd Annual Family Health and Wellness Fair was not only about addressing immediate healthcare needs but also about planting seeds for a healthier future. The event exemplified our commitment to making healthcare accessible for underserved communities, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities for ongoing support.
As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to our mission of fostering a healthier, more empowered Inland Empire. We’re grateful for all the partners, volunteers, and families who made this event possible. Together, we will continue building a healthier future for all.
Thank you to our partners and sponsors!
Good Smoke Better Eats
Healing California
San Bernardino County Public Health
Friends of Family Health Center
Equus Workforce Solutions
California WIC
ParkTree Community Health Center
Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP)
MALO FACEBOOK GROUP
When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. 🍋🍋🍋Huge shoutout to all the amazing volunteers who came out today to pick lemons and make the most delicious lemonade ever! 🍋✨ It was such a fun day of teamwork, laughter, and refreshing drinks. You all brought your A-game, and now we’re ready to serve up some seriously tasty lemonade at our upcoming events. Thank you for your hard work and for making it all so much fun! 💛🍹
#VolunteerSquad #LemonadeLove #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork #FreshAndFun #LemonPicking #GoodVibesOnly #CommunityLove #CheersToVolunteers #LemonadeTime #MakingADifference #Grateful #MaloTongaIE #OntarioIE #InlandEmpire
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💥 Celebrating a true trailblazer this Women’s History Month! 💥 Aki Epenisa made history as the FIRST Tongan woman to represent Tonga in the Olympic Games for boxing. Her strength, determination, and courage continue to inspire women around the world to break barriers and chase their dreams. 🙌
As Aki said, “I want to inspire young girls to never give up on their dreams, no matter the obstacles.”
Let’s honor her legacy and keep pushing for greatness! 💪✨
#WomensHistoryMonth #AkiEpenisa #BreakingBarriers #TonganPride #WomenInSports #Olympian #Inspiration #EmpoweredWomen #BoxingHistory #GirlPower #ChaseYourDreams #Trailblazer #Tonga #MaloTongaIE #OntarioIE #InlandEmpire
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🚨 MALO’s 3rd Annual Family Health & Wellness Day – Friendly Reminder! 🚨
📅 Saturday, April 5th
⏰ 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 First United Methodist Church of Ontario
‼️ What You Need to Know:
✅ Services are first come, first served – We will do our best to see as many people as possible, but there is no guarantee that everyone will be seen.
✅ Expect a long day – Please bring your patience, a chair for waiting, water, and snacks while you wait.
✅ All services are FREE to the public! 🏥🦷👓
We appreciate your understanding and look forward to seeing you there! 💙 #CommunityHealth #MALOHealthFair #WellnessForAll #MaloTongaIE #InlandEmpire #OntarioIE
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🌟 Celebrate history in the making! 🌟 Visesia Fakatoufifita is breaking barriers as the first-ever 11-year-old Tongan actress to land a lead role in the iconic Annie production for a major theatre company. Her talent, determination, and trailblazing spirit shine through every performance. 🙌
In honor of Women’s History Month, we proudly celebrate Visesia as a powerful young role model who is paving the way for future generations of Pacific Islander artists. The future is bright, and it’s hers! ✨ #WomensHistoryMonth #PacificIslanderExcellence #VisesiaFakatoufifita #Trailblazer #AnnieTheMusical #RepresentationMatters #MaloTongaIE #OntarioIE #InlandEmpire
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What’s your favorite fruit?.. 🍓🥭 Feeling fruity and fabulous! 🌿 Did you know that eating a variety of colorful fruits not only boosts your mood but also fuels your body with essential vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber? 🍍💪 Say goodbye to sluggish days and hello to vibrant energy! 🌟 A healthy, fruit-filled diet can help you glow inside and out. 🍏🍇
So, grab a handful of nature’s candy and nourish your body! 🍊💚 Your future self will thank you. ✨ #FruitPower #HealthyLiving #EatTheRainbow #NourishYourBody #FreshAndFruity #VibrantHealth #NatureIsSweet #HealthyChoices #FruitForLife #GlowingFromTheInsideOut #MaloTongaIE #OntarioIE #InlandEmpire
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