KAILUA-KONA — The beat was pounding and bodies sweating at Hale Halawai Saturday night for the third annual Dance 4 Action Domestic Violence Awareness Zumbathon.
Twenty Zumba instructors from around the island came together to lead nearly 100 participants in an ‘80s style, 90-minute dance marathon to raise money for the West Hawaii Child and Family Service Domestic Violence Shelter.
“We want to bring awareness to the domestic violence situation and make sure the shelter continues and has the resources to continue,” said Rhodlynn Watai, member of the organizational team.
Between 120 and 200 West Hawaii residents are served by the shelter yearly, according to Christine Basham, program director for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault for Child and Family Service West Hawaii. The shelter is open 24/7 and staff is always available to take calls from victims of abuse.
The money raised from Saturday’s Zumbathon will help with parent and child needs not covered by the operating budget.
Last year’s proceeds went to purchase 24 backpacks filled with school supplies.
Basham said the backpack drive will continue because there is a huge need. Families leave abuse situations with little more than the clothes on their back. Providing the backpacks to keiki makes sure they are prepared for school.
To make a tax deductible donation call Basham at 322-SAFE (322-7233).