2023 Annual Pāʻina Fundraising Dinner

On the 25th of February, supporters of Hale Kipa gathered at a sunset fundraiser overlooking the rolling surf of Kewalos.  Arriving guests were greeted by the enchanting sounds and graceful sights of entertainers from Ka Lā ‘Ōnohi Mai o Ha‘eha‘e Kumu Hula Tracie & Keawe Lopes.

A pule wehe blessing by Dr. Kahu Kaleo Patterson was followed by a traditional Hawaiian lūʻau as guests were serenaded by the musical talent of John Akapo.

Speakers included Hale Kipa’s Board Chair, Scott Seu, Hale Kipa’s CEO, Venus Rosete-Medeiros, and Hawaiʻi’s First Lady, Jaime Green.  Former Hale Kipa youth gave moving speeches as they relived their turbulent childhood and their journey of hope through programs and services that helped guide them to a better future.

This year, Imua Kākou was the theme – Hana like a holomua pū, Working and Moving Forward Together!  Funds raised from this annual event has gone towards supporting important programs and services that create opportunities for thousands of Hawaiʻi’s young people who need assistance.

Join us next year for another wonderful event that will benefit our community ʻohana.

Special mahalo to the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Hoʻokupu Center, our Silent Auction donors, videography by Gerard Elmore, photography by Leticia Buhr, Ryan’s Graphics Corporation for their printing services, Elite Parking Services, and the dedicated and hard working volunteers who helped make this event a great success.

Click on video to view. Click on photos to enlarge.