About us Coastal Research Collaborative for Keiki
The Coastal Research Collaborative for Keiki (CRC Keiki) is an educational initiative that communicates science to children through holistic storytelling. Founded by coastal geologist and early childhood teacher Helena Andrade, CRC Keiki is part of her PhD research at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa’s Coastal Research Collaborative (CRC), led by Dr. Chip Fletcher.
At CRC Keiki, our mission is to promote a sense of belonging, being, and becoming in every child. Belonging helps children understand their place in diverse communities, fostering relationships and care for the world. Being embraces childhood as a time to explore, discover, and find joy in learning about the environment. Becoming supports children's growth, empowering them to evolve as global citizens and stewards of the natural world.
Through creative storytelling, CRC Keiki aims to instill a lifelong appreciation and care for the environment. We communicate science in child-friendly language to inspire confident, creative individuals and lifelong learners who understand the importance of caring for our planet and one another.
Educational Leader
Creative Designer
The “Collaborative” in Coastal Research Collaborative reflects our commitment to interdisciplinary research and teamwork. We bring together experts from diverse fields, including physical and social sciences, community design, economics, and policy, to produce high-quality, reliable data. By integrating knowledge across disciplines, our research meaningfully benefits coastal communities.
