Visitor Assistance
The HTA supports lead state and county agencies in their collective efforts to help provide visitors with a safe and enjoyable Hawaii visitor experience. In particular, HTA is involved in supporting visitor assistance and crisis management efforts on behalf of Hawaii’s visitor industry.
Visitor Assistance Programs
When visitors are affected by crime and other adversities, Hawaii’s hospitality is exemplified by the Visitor Assistance Programs (VAP) available in each county. These organizations, along with volunteers and a wide network of partner organizations, offer various types of assistance.
For more information, visit:
Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii (Oahu)
Jessica Lani Rich, President and Executive Director
Telephone: (808) 926-8274
visitorexec@hawaii.rr.com
Website: http://www.visitoralohasocietyofhawaii.org
Visitor Aloha Society of Kauai
Tricia Yamashita, Executive Director
Telephone: (808) 482-0111
Email: vask_ed@gmail.com
VASH Maui (Maui County)
Janet Kuwahara, Director of VASH
Telephone: (808) 244-3530
Email: janet@mauivb.com
Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii Island
Linda Allen, Executive Director
Telephone: (808) 756-0785 – Kona
Telephone: (808) 756-1472 – Hilo
Email: admin@vashbigisland.org
Website: http://vashbigisland.org/
Crisis Management
As the state’s tourism agency, HTA actively collaborates with state and county civil defense agencies, visitor industry businesses and associations, global marketing partners and federal emergency agencies to discuss, plan for and help respond to potential crisis/emergencies situations that could affect visitors. HTA also works to identify ways for increased partnership in mitigating disasters and providing assistance.
- Hawaii Hazard Preparation: HTA helped support the Hawaii Hazard Preparation website, which houses information on emergency resources throughout the State. The information is intended to help residents and visitors better prepare themselves against natural disasters and crisis situations.
HTA crisis management work includes support for visitors after ATA and Aloha Airlines shutdown, as well as industry communications following the March 11 Japan Earthquake and Tsunami.
