Initially a surfer from New York, Bryan was informally adopted by his Aunt and Uncle Jo(e) at 16 years old when he was being threatened with physical abuse by his mother's boyfriend. Together, they provided him a safe and loving home as well as helped him build his own bedroom in an unfinished space within their house. Aunt Jo was someone who was extremely devoted to her family and Uncle Joe was a calm, consistent and loving mentor. Together, their actions planted the seeds within Bryan to create Eden. When the Great Recession hit, he lost his job in construction, became homeless and vowed to help as many people out of desperate situations as he could. This was the start of Eden. Through years of handyman work and flipping homes he was able to raise the money to buy property, start building homes and a community for those in need. He is a construction manager by trade, but strives to embody grassroots leadership in the community today.  

 

Today, he is passionate about doing as much good as he can with the property he invested into and is particularly passionate about working with former foster youth. His earlier family life informed his commitment to  these transitioning youth, and his devotion to do what he can for this community.  He has helped to nurse many young animals into the property, has been excited to work with countless volunteers, and is an amazing mentor and role model to young men who are otherwise at risk. 

Director of Food Security and Community Building

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Chas Learned has 20 years of private consulting and community organizing experience having down work in Africa in his 20s. Chas took the lead in partnering with One Ohana in 2025, to deliver 200 nutritious, fresh meals monthly to our community members. He has been leading the greenhouse team as we mov towards producing 100% of our food onsite. There is a learning curve involved with the climate of Puna Hawaii. Chas also took the lead on the Farm to Car Agriculture Partnership, allowing for food grown on land to be supplemented with other regional partner. In 2026, we plan to expand the agriculture team via more community partners.

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Chas is also committed to building an extended Ohana to support the well being of our special residents.