On the evening of Sept 28, 2023 the combined East Hawaii Clubs held a fundraiser for helping to support recovery activities associated with the Lahaina and Upcountry Maui wildfire.
The Mālama Maui Rotary "Friendraiser" was attended by nearly 70 East Hawaii Rotarians and their guests on September 28th at the Hilo ARC. Five Rotary Clubs participated including the Rotary Clubs of South Hilo, Hilo Bay, Hilo, Pahoa Sunset and Volcano Crater. District Governor Mark Merriam attended as well as past District Governors Randy Hart and Sandy Matsui. DG Mark reported that the District 5000 Foundation Maui Fires Relief fund has raised nearly $2,000,000 that will be distributed locally by the Rotary clubs on Maui. The Hilo event raised $1500 that will be donated directly to the Maui Fires Relief fund.
The event also served as a showcase for Rotaryʻs activities in East Hawaii including the Oceanview Water Truck project (South Hilo), the Oktoberfest fundraiser (Hilo Bay), and School Supply Distribution (Hilo). Guests and non-Rotarians had an opportunity to learn more about Rotaryʻs work and meet many of the Rotarians who attended.
