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
🌊 As a Tongan Pacific Islander Led Organization in Southern California lets get in the know and Be Emergency Ready! 🌊
FEMA reports that our community, including our elders, is among the least prepared for disasters. Living in Southern California means we face risks like earthquakes, wildfires, and floods. Let's get prepared now!
✅ Sign up for Emergency Alerts
Get real-time updates sent to your phone. A few minutes warning can save your life! Sign up for AlertCalifornia at calalerts.org to receive notifications for earthquakes, wildfires, and evacuations specific to your area.
🚗 Stock Your Car with Emergency Supplies
Make sure your car has essentials like:
Jumper cables
Blankets, towels
Water, snacks
Flashlight with extra batteries
A power bank to charge your phone
These items can be lifesavers during evacuations or emergencies on the road. Learn more about what to pack at caloes.ca.gov.
📲 Communication is Key!
Texting is the best way to communicate when cell networks are overwhelmed. Collect contacts now and share your emergency plan with loved ones. Find tips on creating a family communication plan at ready.gov.
🔥 Stay Fire Ready
Southern California is wildfire-prone. Keep your home and family safe by creating a defensible space and signing up for ReadyForWildfire alerts at readyforwildfire.org.
🌪️ Be Earthquake Prepared
Southern California sits on major fault lines! Download the MyShake app from the California Earthquake Early Warning System to receive alerts seconds before an earthquake strikes. Prepare your home by securing furniture and having an evacuation plan.
🏝️ Our community’s strength is in our togetherness. Let’s protect each other by staying informed and prepared.
For more resources on emergency preparedness, visit listoscalifornia.org.
Stay safe, Pacific Islanders—our community depends on it! 💪🏽❤️
#malotongaie #4You4Me4CommunityFirst #SouthernCalifornia #FEMA #CalOES #ListosCalifornia #ChooseHumanity🍉
Photo Cred: SB County OES
OK MALO TEAM and The Queen Veiongo Soakai
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