We all need space to make, to explore, to heal. The Donkey Mill Art Center’s 2.6 acre campus provides this necessary, creative space for our community year after year. In the last two years as pandemic recovery continues, we’ve seen class registration, exhibition attendance and membership increase to pre-pandemic levels showcasing the tangible power of what we do. The Mill serves over 4,000 people per year including about 800 youth, and more than 500 annual members. On average each year we employ 40 teaching artists, provide over 100 classes, and open five art exhibitions with free admission to the public. The Mill is an essential space

“It is wonderful to see a place where all ages can create, play, discover, struggle, and grow.” -Ben Mollat Ka’a’awa, Parent

2024 marks the 70th anniversary of the original Kona Coffee Cooperative building that the Donkey Mill calls home. This building has spent decades serving as a special gathering place for West Hawai‘i. As the number of people served by our programs increases, the needs of both our team and of our aging facilities are correspondingly rising as well. Our ability to meet current community demand for classes and events is often restricted by our facility limitations. In the immediate future, we will continue developing a Master Campus Plan that aims at addressing these growing community needs through a major renovation of the existing historic structure and the addition of new permanent spaces. We truly look forward to sharing more on this in the coming year.

More than half of the Mill’s annual budget comes from the generosity of individuals. This lush, creative economy would not be possible without you. You can help ensure the Mill continues to be a healing and safe, creative space for West Hawaii by making a gift today. 

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Mahalo for your support.

Ashley Raymond
Executive Director

Natasha Ala
Board of Directors, President