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.
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.
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.
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
Sip Sip, Hooray! 🥤💦
Staying hydrated isn’t just about quenching thirst — it’s about fueling your body, boosting your mood, and showing up as your healthiest, happiest self. ✨
Dehydration can mess with your energy, focus, skin, and even your mood. Your body is over 60% water — treat it like the fountain of wellness it is!
So grab that water bottle, add some fruit if you’re feeling fancy 🍋🍓, and make sipping part of your self-care routine. Your body will thank you, and so will your glow 💁🏽♀️
Drink up. 😌🔥
#HydrationNation #StayHydrated #WellnessTips #WaterIsLife #HealthyHabits #GlowUp #SelfCareDaily #DrinkMoreWater #MindBodyGlow #WellnessVibes #HappyAndHydrated #MaloTongaIE #InlandEmpire #OntarioIE
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🌿 Take a moment. Breathe. 🌿
In a world that’s always rushing, don’t forget to pause and give yourself the gift of rest.
Whether it’s a quiet walk, a deep breath, or five minutes of stillness—those small moments matter.
Your mental health deserves care, too.
Rest is not a luxury. It’s essential. 💛
#MentalHealthMatters #SelfCare #TakeABreak #RelaxAndRecharge #Mindfulness #WellnessJourney #YouDeserveRest #BreatheDeep #MentalWellness #SlowDown #PeaceWithin #SelfLove #RestIsProductive #BurnoutPrevention #CalmMind #MaloTongaIE #InlandEmpire #OntarioIE
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📣 Our Elders Are Our Foundation 🌺
In our Polynesian cultures, our elders are sacred. They carry our stories, our strength, and our spirit. But many of them are living with diabetes — and it’s up to us to make sure they’re not doing it alone. ❤️
Here’s how you can help support an elder with diabetes:
✅ Help with meals: Cook or prep traditional foods in healthier ways — grill instead of fry, reduce sugar, and add more greens.
✅ Walk with them: Even 15 minutes a day can make a big difference in blood sugar and heart health. Make it social, make it fun!
When we take care of our elders, we take care of our roots. 🌱 Let’s stand together in love, respect, and action.
#PolynesianPride #DiabetesAwareness #IslandStrong #PacificIslanderHealth #CareForOurElders #ManaForLife #TonganStrong #SamoanWellness #HealthyʻOhana #IslandCommunityCare #RespectOurRoots #MaloTongaIE #OntarioIE #InlandEmpire
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🧠✨ July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month!
Because mental health isn’t one-size-fits-all — and that’s okay! 💬💛
Different communities experience mental health in unique ways, and it’s important to recognize that culture, identity, access, and stigma all play a role.
So this month, we’re shining a light 💡 on healing, representation, and the power of saying:
👉 “It’s okay to not be okay.”
Let’s break the silence, talk about our stories, and support each other with heart, humor, and hope 💬🌈
📌 Pro tips:
🫶 Check in with your people
📚 Learn about culturally competent care
🧘🏽♀️ Make space for your own rest + joy
💬 Talk to someone — even if it’s just to say “today was A LOT”
Mental health matters — for every background, every voice, every story. 🧡💙💚
#MinorityMentalHealthMonth #MentalHealthMatters #CultureAndCare #YouAreNotAlone #HealingInColor #CommunityCare #MentalHealthAwareness #RepresentationMatters #MindBodySoul #NormalizeTherapy #RestIsResistance #WellnessForAll #JulyAwareness #BreakTheStigma #MaloTongaIE #InlandEmpire #OntarioIE
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🏖️☀️ POOL FUN = SAFE FUN! 🏊♀️💦
Summer vibes are 🔥, but safety should always be cool. Whether you’re a cannonball king 👑 or a floaty queen 👙, pool safety saves lives — especially for our little swimmers! 💛
👀 Did you know?
🚨 Drowning is one of the leading causes of injury-related death for kids 1–4.
💡 Supervision, barriers, and swimming lessons make a HUGE difference.
👂 A quick 10 seconds of distraction can lead to tragedy — stay alert & stay safe!
📌 Tips for a safe splash:
✔️ Always designate a Water Watcher 🕶️
✔️ Keep fences & gates secure 🛑
✔️ Learn CPR 💓
✔️ Teach kids to swim — and float!
Let’s make every pool party a SAFE party 🎉🌊
#PoolSafety #SummerVibes #SafeSwim #DrowningPrevention #FamilyFun #StaySafeStayCool #SwimSmart #WaterWatcher #CPRSavesLives #WatchYourWaterBabies #SunshineAndSafety #KidsFirst #CommunityCare #MaloTongaIE #InlandEmpire #OntarioIE
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