2015 Hoʻōla Nā Pua Gala Highlights

Before guests entered our gala registration area at the Pacific Club, they walked through a unique Photovoice experience, which used photography and words to capture and share a brave survivor’s story.

Katie Small creating a one-of-a-kind piece just for our Gala

The evening kicked off with a champagne and pupu reception where guests mingled with one another and had the chance to learn more about our mission at information tables. Katie Small, a talented live artist, provided a live painting performance inspired by “girls being called to their destiny.” We then sold the painting at our live auction that very night! Thanks to the architectural team or Dennis Furukawa, Anna Grune, and Joan Rigg’s Chaminade Interior Design students, guests were also treated to being among the first to see the updated architectural renderings of the 12-acre residential facility where our girls will receive much needed terapy and restoration. All this visual and educational entertainment was set against the backdrop of Ben Vegas and Malia Gibson’s sweet melodies.

Elizabeth Nohea performing Nani Ahiahi

During the dinner, Kamehameha student, Elizabeth Nohea, performed a beautiful hula to Nani Ahiahi by Kaumakaiwa Kanaka’ole that told the story of of young girl getting more and more beautiful till she finds the life she needs. Guests also had the chance to hear Kevin Takata, chairperson for the Hawai‘i Coalition Against Human Trafficking, speak about the decriminilization of our victimized keiki. He was followed by an impassioned speech from our president Jessica Munoz where she revealed the name of our facility: Pearl Haven. Jessica’s speech was concluded by a beautiful poem from Ashley Romano that set a tone for the restoration efforts of Pearl Haven.

Throughout the night, emcee duo Gregg and Shawnee Hammer kept guests laughing and engaged, and once it came time for the live auction, Auctioneer Joe Teipel worked his magic by continuing the evening at an energizing pace.

Mrs. Hawaii International 2015 Tiare Lando helping our auctioneer Joe Teipel sell an exclusive tour of the Grace Family Vineyards

Live auction winners went home with big ticket items like a one week stay at Turtle Bay, a Chateau Whistler Ski Getaway with airfare, a Surf Tech Stand-Up paddle board,  and a private tour of the Grace Family Vineyards in Helena. One of our donors, Paul Coleman, even got so excited that he auctioned off two more of his private Mauna Kea tours after the first one sold for $2,000!

With the help of almost 300 attendees, 100 volunteers, several generous sponsors and in-kind donors, we were able to raise nearly $153,000! We want to thank all of our sponsors below, our generous participants, and the many volunteers that made it all possible.

You can view all event photos on our Facebook page.

OUR SPONSORS

We were delighted to be partner with various members of our local community for this fundraising and awareness event:

Diamond Title Sponsor: The Omidyar ʻOhana

Gold Sponsor: June Jones

Silver Sponsors:

Special thanks to all of our generous in-kind donors as well!