Faculty, staff and student clubs organize fundraiser, AWC4MAUI
November 6, 2023Yuma, AZ (November 6, 2023) – In August 2023, the Hawaiian Island of Maui experienced the worst fire disaster in the history of the Hawaiian Islands and the fifth deadliest in U.S. history. The historic town of Lahaina, which dates back to the 1700s, was hit the hardest and reduced to ash and ruins. Countless families were displaced, and residents are beginning the unimaginable task of trying to rebuild their community and their lives.
Faculty, staff, and students at Arizona Western College are inviting the community to participate in a day of kāko`o (loving support) for the people of Maui through an upcoming fundraiser, AWC4MAUI. Sponsored by the AWC Business Club, the event will be held from 11:00am-1:30pm on Thursday, Nov. 16, in the 3C Breezeway at the AWC Yuma Campus, 2020 S. Ave 8E. The focus of the fundraiser will be to share the collective `ike (knowledge and expertise) of cultural movement and dance to raise awareness and funds for people impacted by the Maui wildfires.
Activities will include Zumba, belly dancing, local indigenous tribal dancing, hula, and healing Hawaiian chant and song. The event will also feature a silent auction and various food items, T-shirts, and other items for sale.
“We want to financially help Maui families displaced and dispossessed after recent wildfires. Together we stand united for the people and places of Maui. Our intentions aid Maui in healing, today and tomorrow after recent tragedy,” said Dr. Liz Renaud, AWC Professor of Early Childhood Education.
Dr. Michelle Sims, AWC Professor of Economics, added, “We want our AWC students to learn about the importance of philanthropy and collaboration to help those in need, especially during the Thanksgiving season of gratitude. We also want our students to gain hands-on experience with organizing and facilitating a multi-faceted, complex community event.”
Donations raised will benefit the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA), a member-based 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a mission to enhance the cultural, economic, political, and community development of Native Hawaiians. The worldwide CNHA Kāko`o Maui Fund provides resources that can be deployed quickly and efficiently to Hawaiian communities impacted by the Maui wildfires.
Contact:
Dr. Kristine Duke
Professor of Accounting
Arizona Western College
Kristine.Duke@azwestern.edu
928-344-7783
Contact:
Dr. Michelle Sims
Professor of Economics
Arizona Western College
Michelle.Sims@azwestern.edu
928-344-7670
Contact:
Dr. Liz Renaud
Professor of Early Childhood Education
Arizona Western College
Lizzie.Renaud@azwestern.edu
(928) 344-7560