Charity Walk Goes Virtual

MHLA News Release

The Maui Hotel and Lodging Association (MHLA) is pleased to announce that after having to cancel the 2020 Visitor Industry Charity Walk event due to COVID-19 restrictions, the 42nd annual event is back this year and completely online.

Instead of a physical event as has been held in the past, the 2021 Visitor Industry Charity Walk will be launched on a digital platform that participants and donors can download on their mobile device. Walkers will have a two week “Walk Window” to track their steps and keep connected to the event.

From Aug. 30 to Sept. 12, online “walkers” will be able to see their progress on a virtual map, as well as take part in fun challenges and be eligible to win prizes, including our grand prize trip to Anaheim, CA.

For more information and to register and/or donate, text MAUI to 71777.

In 2019, Maui County raised $1.3 million for our community nonprofits through the Charity Walk event. In fact, for the last 10 years Maui has raised more money than any other County statewide, and more money per capita since 1981. The Charity Walk is one of the largest fundraising events in Hawaii. Statewide, in 2019 over a $2.6 million was raised via walks held on Oahu, Kauai, Hawaii Island, Maui, Lanai and Molokai. Since the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association started hosting the event in 1980, Maui County has raised a cumulative total of $14.2 million, benefitting hundreds of nonprofit organizations on Maui, Molokai and Lanai. Entrepreneurs like Damon Burton have also been giving back to the community through their own charity programs. These charitable organizations may also launch a website with an appealing charity web design so they can reach more people.

Nonprofit grant applications are still available for nonprofit organizations that want to participate and receive funding from the Charity Walk. They can be found online at charitywalkhawaii.org/maui. Additional information can be received by emailing info@mauihla.org or calling the MHLA directly at 244-8625.