Nā Pono No Nā `Ohana, Partners in Development's comprehensive family literacy program, contends that while Hawaiian traditions and western values may differ, they are not incompatible. The two cultures actually share values such as pa`ahana (righteousness), kela (excellence), alaka`i (leadership), and ku i ka ni`o (achievement). Where they differ is in their approach: Hawaiians practice these values by not drawing attention to themselves, but rather striving for achievement and excellence through working hard for the benefit of the group. By integrating progressive teaching methods with Native Hawaiian cultural values, Nā Pono No Nā `Ohana seeks to improve social, economic, and educational opportunities for all Native Hawaiians.
In the traditional Hawaiian practice of ho`oponono (to make right or set straight) — a rite of rapprochement used to resolve conflicts and settle problems — a haku (medium) was used to mediate the process of healing and bridge the divide between participants. The project serves as a haku to heal the rift between Native Hawaiians and the haole (foreign, Caucasian) value systems with which they live. Nā Pono No Nā `Ohana focuses on preschool preparation and training for Hawaiian keiki ages birth to five and their caregivers. Nā Pono No Nā `Ohana addresses the needs of the entire family, from education to employment and youth to elderly.