KAILUA-KONA — Charlene Raco is a woman on a mission. ADVERTISING KAILUA-KONA — Charlene Raco is a woman on a mission. Moving to Ocean View for six months of the year from her Hurricane Sandy ravaged home in Staten Island,
KAILUA-KONA — Charlene Raco is a woman on a mission.
Moving to Ocean View for six months of the year from her Hurricane Sandy ravaged home in Staten Island, New York, Raco has seen a need to help the underserved residents of her new home.
“My mom always said charity begins at home” said Raco. “And even though there are people all over the world that need assistance, we have to help the ones right here in our community.”
Raco was struck by the poverty that exists in rural Ocean View and decided that something needed to be done to help those most in need islandwide.
With that thought in mind, Raco, through her nonprofit Handi Jam, has organized a “4 Day Holiday Extravaganza” beginning today and running through Sunday to raise funds and toys for people in need.
The kick-off promo party begins at 7 tonight at the Hawaii Big Game Fishing Club at Honokohau Harbor with a toy and food drive, flea market, food, Santa, music and more. Friday and Saturday will feature a car and bike show, costumed characters and a nightly concert featuring nationally renowned guitarist and vocalist Mark Karan playing with Ted Wolfgang and Will and Ocean View band JPGS. Local band Smoke and Mirrors will open each night at 7 p.m.
Sunday afternoon, the party moves to the Ocean View Community Center, culminating with a special concert by Mark Karan and an All-Star Local Jam. Admission to the concert is a $15 donation, waived for veterans, group homes, foster kids and car-bike show entrants. Young musicians are encouraged to come and join the jam. Volunteers are still needed to share their talent.
Info: (917) 561-4800.
