MHLA Distributes Nearly $1.6 mil to Beneficiaries of Charity Walk

WAILUKU, MAUI – On Friday, July 26, the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association (MHLA) hosted a Maui Charity Walk Allocation Reception Breakfast at the Wailea Beach Resort. A total $1,559,449 was distributed to fifty-nine nonprofit beneficiary participants of the Maui County Charity Walk that took place this past May. Statewide, the Visitor Industry Charity Walk raised over $2 million with walks on Kauai, Hawaii Island, Oahu and Maui. For the last 14 consecutive years, Maui has raised more dollars per capita than any other island.

Charity Walk Chair, Angela Vento, General Manager of the Wailea Beach Resort, presented Silver Slipper Awards to the top fundraising teams. The 2024 top fundraising business was AMP Restaurants raising $22,857, top fundraising property was The Grand Wailea raising $73,001, and the top fundraising nonprofit was Maui Economic Opportunity raising $164,491.

Mayor Richard Bissen shared gratitude in his speech during the reception. Also present at the breakfast was Senator Troy Hashimoto, Representative Tyson Miyake and appointed representation on behalf of Councilmembers Tom Cook and Nohe Uʻu-Hodgins.

“The visitor industry has once again shown its support of the community,” said MHLA Executive Director, Lisa Paulson. “Today’s charity walk reception is a testament to our commitment, and the funds distributed will further the vital work of these nonprofit organizations, ensuring a brighter, more equitable future for all."

Beyond the Visitor Industry Charity Walk, MHLA contributes to numerous causes and nonprofits through year-round giving. MHLA most recently sponsored the Get Out the Vote community event and is supporting the Made in Maui County Festival in November. To support MHLA efforts like these, or to sign up for the 2025 Maui Charity Walk, visit their website mauihla.org.

Photo Credit (top) Maui Photo Hub, Captions: CW Top Fundraising Winners, Lisa Paulson, Angela Vento

Photo Credit (1): MHLA, Captions: Angela Vento, Senator Troy Hashimoto, Rep. Tyson Miyake and Mayor Bissen

Photo Credit (2): MHLA, Captions: Make-a-Wish-Foundation, Wailea Beach Resort & MHLA

(and link to more photos): Maui Photo Hub