HONOLULU (KHON2) — Thousands of hospitality workers tied their walking shoes this morning to raise over $2 million for Hawaii nonprofits at the Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association’s 45th Annual Industry Charity Walk.
According to president and CEO of HLTA Mufi Hannemann, over three thousand volunteers and walkers made their way to Waikiki to participate in the event.
The 5.25-mile walk began at Ala Moana Beach Park’s Magic Island. Participants walked throughout Waikiki while visiting over 20 vendor checkpoints treating them to “a variety of food, drink, and entertainment provided by the Charity Walk’s many generous sponsors.”
“I’m proud to say that before the walk actually commenced on each of the three islands, nearly $2 million had been raised for this event; with donations that were made today, we are now well over $2 million,” Hannemann said.
On Maui, nearly 1,600 walkers headed to the War Memorial Complex, completing a 2.5-mile walk to raise over $1.2 million for the cause.
“To see Maui come together once again with such strength and determination, while still in recovery from the wildfires, is such a testament of the unique spirit we have in Maui County,” said Executive Director of the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association, Lisa Paulson. There was so much joy today.”
After participants finished the 2.5-mile walk, they were greeted with a complimentary breakfast, treats, giveaway prizes, and local entertainment.
“We will await Hawai‘i Island’s walk which will be held next week in Waikoloa before we put out a final tally. We are therefore still encouraging and accepting contributions to support our nonprofits,” Hannemann added.
Since its beginning in 1978, the walk has raised over $45 million statewide for hundreds of nonprofit organizations. In 2023, the state raised $2.7 million.
