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MAUI🚨 In the ruins of Lahaina, a surfing legend leads a volunteer army to get supplies to survivors. Archie Kalepa, a well-known waterman and member of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, is stepping up to lead a grassroots relief effort. Archie Kalepa wasn't home when the fires began, but his neighbors joined firefighters to protect their cul-de-sac next to the Lahaina Civic and Recreation Center. When Kalepa received news of the fires, he was training people in water rescue in Lake Tahoe. From there, he reached out to friends and arranged for supplies to be delivered to his home. Flying into Maui the very next day, Kalepa arrived by boat with supplies to his hometown of Lahaina, where he witnessed the stark devastation - charred hills, burned-out cars, and destroyed homes. One of Kalepa's first actions was to pull Starlink satellite receivers from the Polynesian Voyaging Society's canoes to restore internet and communication to the area. Today, the LA Times published an article about Kalepa, a former lifeguard better known as Uncle Archie, and what he has accomplished for his Lahaina community over the last week. He says his cul-de-sac has become "a starting point to the rebuilding of our communities." LA Times journalist Jack Dolan shares the story of Uncle Archie and "his volunteer army," who have transformed the waterman's front yard into a "supply depot to rival those established by the government and aid organizations." "Right now, this is not my home," he said, sporting a neon vest and a Walkie Talkie strapped to his chest, directing dozens of volunteers. "This is our community's home." Life-sustaining supplies — water bottles, gas cans, tents, generators, food, and medication — are neatly stacked and free for any Lahaina residents who stop by. After turning his home into a supply pod, Uncle Archie is now setting up pods in other Lahaina neighborhoods to support his entire community. “We need to stay strong for the long haul,” he said. “So everybody who owns a home here can return.” Uncle Archie's story continues below with videos and links for how you can help the community of Lahaina, Maui. 👇