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

VIEW OUR FULL HISTORY

“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

March 2017

May 2018

July 2018

Early 2020

April 2020 – Present

January 2021 – Present

July 2022

October 2022 – Present

Spring 2023 – Present

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

Cultural Annual Event

MALO hosts its first annual event celebrating Tongan culture.

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 NHPI

Additionally, 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

The MALO Kahau Youth Program is dedicated to empowering and uplifting our youth by providing opportunities for cultural connection, personal growth, leadership development, and community involvement. Through mentorship, meaningful activities, and the teachings of our heritage, we encourage young people to build confidence, strengthen their identity, and become positive leaders for future generations.

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)