In the spirit of giving this holiday season, the following power philanthropists share what a special impact gifting non-profits serve at this time of the year. Plus, we ask them what favorite local items they gift to those close to them.
PHOTO BY RACHEL KEALOHA CRESS
“The holidays are a time when many reflect on life and family and make plans for the future,” says Jessica Muñoz, MSN, APRN-RX, FNP-BC, founder and CEO of Ho’ōla Nā Pua (hoolanapua.org), which is dedicated to creating a community where children are safe and have the ability to embrace their bright futures. “Many people in our communities are living in challenging situations and may not be given the opportunity to receive a gift , support, or have access to essential items. We can change that together. Donating during the holiday season can provide the most vulnerable with items and programming critical to their survival—mentally, emotionally, spiritually and physically. Philanthropy is essential to build innovative and transformative programming. Personally, I love watching the lives of our youth impacted through programming, and I am grateful for the community of donors that has come around these youth to support them in their healing journey.”
Gifts With Local Love
Treats from Waialua Coffee and Chocolate, waialuaestate.com
Gift Certificate to Haleiwa Joes Seafood Grill, haleiwajoes.com
Gift cards to Crazy Shirts, crazyshirts.com, and T&C Surf Design, tcsurf.com
Waialua honey from the honey stand, hihoneyfarm.com
Na Hoku bracelet and earrings, nahoku.com
PHOTO BY SEAN MARRS
“Giving is a reflection of what you care about,” says John Leong, co-founder and CEO of Kupu (kupuhawaii.square.site), who also enjoys cooking for others. “The holidays are a time of reflection and thanksgiving. We are so grateful when a family, corporation or foundation makes generous gift s to Kupu. It is meaningful because we feel it’s validating our mission and impact in the community.” Kupu is also excited to earn the partnership of donors. “We are moving rapidly and in big ways to make a difference for our environment and the next generation who will pave the way for areas such as climate change mitigation, conservation, sustainability, renewable energy, waste reduction, and local agriculture.”
Gifts With Local Love
Gift Certificate to the Kupu Food Truck!
Poi or Kulolo, Aloha Aina Poi Co., alohaainapoico.com
25th Anniversary Large Cookie Box, Honolulu Cookie Co., honolulucookie.com
Fresh brew gift card, Drip Studio HNL, dripstudiohnl.com
Tour or membership at the National Tropical Botanical Gardens, ntbg.org
Plant-based protein bars, ALOHA, aloha.com
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