Nearly 40 years ago, the Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association sponsored a charitable “Superwalk” to benefit one major charity. Shortly after, the association’s members voted to extended the reach of support offered by the successful event.
The annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk is the result of this decision, and numerous Hawaii nonprofits continue to benefit. Walks are held every May on Hawaii Island, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai and Oahu. Since its inception, more than $24 million has been raised and all the monies contributed raised on each island stay on that island.
More than 2,000 people participated in this year’s event, held Saturday at the Waikoloa Beach Resort. The minimal pledge to participate was $35 for adults and $25 for children. While walking or running the four-mile route, they were treated with food, drink, entertainment and opportunities to learn more about the local organizations they were helping.