Hedonisia Hawaii Tropical Farm Retreat
Hedonisia Hawaii Volunteer Interview Questions
Finding the Right Fit
Hedonisia Hawaii operates as an open tolerant community of individuals. We do not discriminate against anyone regardless of their race, gender, age, physical abilities or sexual orientation. We want people to be able to find a place that is a good fit for them. Hedonisia might not be the right place for everyone, so our interview process seeks to clarify for you and for us whether we are a good match. We believe in transparency and in this light we have decided to publish some of the questions we ask during a telephone interview.
If you belong to one of the following demographic groups there are further questions as well as information that will be relevant to you:
- Older Men and Women over 40
- Young men under 18 - 35
- Parents with Children or Single Mothers
- Men or Women who have experience using construction or land tools such as chainsaw or weedwacker
We are in no way trying to prevent these demographics from being here, much the opposite, but our experience has shown that certain individuals may find themselves in a situation not condusive to their lifestyle or ours.
People who have lived peacefully in a community before, who feel at home amongst nature, and have the desire to learn about different perspectives and learn new skills, will often fit very well at Hedonisia.
Please review our Volunteer Terms of Stay
- How well are you able to follow instructions and correction. Especially from someone who may be younger than you?
(We look for people with a forward looking way of thinking, those who are open to being instructed by people of any age. We also look for people who are excited about living as a community of individuals, not JUST their own vision on how things should be done. Hedonisia is a collaboration of ideas of from many people, we pride ourselves on this.) - Have you ever lived in a community before? Do you have references from communities where you were before?
(We look for people who are experienced and comfortable in a community environment. However, someone who is enthusiastic to learn about living in a community can also fit right in! Experience and enthusiasm for communal living are assets.) - Do you enjoy working and living with people in the 19-35 year old range?
(Our most common demographic is people 19-35. Older people who express enthusiasm about learning with younger folks are most likely to have a great time here.) - Do you drink alcohol and how much?
Hedonisia has a non-drunkeness policy, and while this by no means rules out drinking, we do want to emphasize that negative, alcohol related behaviors are out of place here, and in extreme cases will not be tolerated. - Are there any disabilities or restrictions, physical or otherwise, that will effect your stay here and what work is feasible for you.?
We have a variety of work tasks for all levels of physical and mental ability, however we would like open communication about these in order to be sure your boundaries and limitations are respected from the get-go and a situation does not arise. - Do you have particular bathroom needs?
(Many of the accomodations are quite a distance from the bathrooms. Please decide on accomodations according to your needs.)
For many older people who resist being a complete tourist type we recommend the 50/50 plan as a way to really get involved, but still not be over-worked and have time and energy to go out and play.
- How long have you been living on your own or in a community, and has that been going well?
We are looking for people who are aware of how to take care of themselves and how to respect others and shared spaces. Communities can often be a way for people to get by without taking responsibility for themselves. We are not the place for that, we are a community of individuals, and that is how we can maintain a peaceful and clean environment. Please present the community with a responsible and adult attitude. - How well do you take instruction and receive correction? Please give examples.
We need people who are alert, ready to learn, and really want be involved in something. We also, in many tasks, need people who can pay attention to detail and not need to be corrected repetedly. Self direction is valued but also the ability to stop and ask questions if needed. We especially require all Volunteers to be able to receive constructive criticism without a defensive attitude. - Are you gay friendly?
We are looking for people with open minds and respectful attitiudes towards those with alternative lifestyles. Those without need not apply. Many men who have a more macho attitude tend to be less tolerant of homosexuality. So for hetero men Gay tolerance is a basic test. - How to you related with women?
Men and women share communal spaces and work together. An adult attitude towards this social dynamic is important. We stress that sexually harrassing behaviour is not tolerated, not even if alcohol induced. Your actions and attitudes in a community are your responsibility. - Do you drink alcohol, if so, how much?
Hedonisia has a non-drunkeness policy, and while this by no means rules out drinking, we do want to emphasize that negative alcohol related behaviors are out of place here, and will not be tolerate. The Hedonisia definition of drunkeness is, "any behavior under the influence of alcohol which causes another Guest or Volunteer to feel uncomfortable.
Single or Two Parents with Child(ren)
- Has your child ever lived in community before?
Chidren here will be around a variety of adults who may or may not be receptive to them, it is helpful if they have been around alot of people of different types, and function well with it. - Can they take instruction from other adults?
Often times other adults will need to give instruction/warning to them, children here need to be receptive to that for thier own saftey and so that they can respect the adults' space. - Does your child ever run off without supervision?
Chidren love the nature out here but there are areas, like the volcanic crater, that can be very dangerous for them. We do not reccomend bringing overly adventurous children here. - How old is the child and are they able to sleep in the same space as you? Can they deal with other peoples' noise around them when falling asleep?
Please consult with us about the nature of the spaces and what you need to bring to accomodate your child's sleeping needs. - Info
We do charge for each child as a parent can never quite give us thier full attention during working hours. The rate is half the adult price. Parents with one child can only participate under the 50/50 Volunteer Plan
Experience Using Tools: We will also ask you about your skill levels in using certain equipment. Please answer truthfully, this is about your safety and the precious tools that have helped us create our community. We determine projects based on peoples experience and what they can bring to the table. If we need extra Volunteers for particular projects then we are open to let people learn new skills, but we are not always in a position to train someone especially if they are at the complete beginner level.
Please do not get discouraged if you do not have any of these skills, we have plenty of other things to do as well! As long as you have enthusiasm and a willingness to learn then you will pick up new skills while you are here.
If you wish to participate in Hedonisia Outdoor Eco-Hostel projects then what Experience do you have using the following tools? (never before, novice, intermediate, pro, or wanting to learn)
| Weed Wacker | Chainsaw | Sewing Machine |
| Table Saw | Drill | Machete |
| Pick-ax | Hiking Trail Construction | Circular Saw |
| Electric Sander | Sawsal | Jigsaw |
If you have any other questions, please contact the management . MAHALO!