Monday, May 23, 2011

33RD VISITOR INDUSTRY CHARITY WALK

For over 3 decades, the Hawaii Visitor Industry Charity Walk has benefited many non profit organizations. In its 33rd year, this is considered to be the biggest single day money raiser in the state. Since it’s beginning in 1978, the charity walk has raised over $22 million. It’s the 4th time I’ve had the opportunity to do it and the second time that Anabelle and I have done it together. There were about 1.000 walkers or so representing different hotels from different parts of the island.

The charity walk is 3 miles long that takes you from War Memorial Gym in Wailuku. It then weaves through Kahului before ending up back at the gym. There were about 10 water stations that handed out everything from water and oranges to key chains and visors. I skipped almost everything besides the water as Anabelle capitalized on getting as much of everything and lugging everything back, in her free recyclable bag.  LOL. The weather wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be but I’m sure the free visors we got had a bit to do with it. At the end of the walk, we were treated to a great breakfast spread prepared by some of the best restaurants from different hotels. We had macaroni and cheese with Portuguese sausage, waffles, and breakfast burritos. They also served waters, sodas, and cappuccino smoothies. There was cotton candy for the kids which was right across the keiki (child) tent where there was a balloon animal making class and a face painting area. We were given a free show by local comedian Frank Delima who had us in stitches.

At the end of the day, the island of Maui raised $475,101. It was a great day. We the employees, our families, our friends, and our supporters were able to become one. Knowing we were able to help other non profit organizations and their ventures gives us great reason to want to do this again. Until next year. If you’re interested, please visit charitywalkhawaii.org







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