Circus Donates to Molokai Schools

Molokai Ranch and Modern American Circus representatives present a $500 check to Molokai High School as part of a Molokai Ranch’s sponsorship of the circus. From left to right: Clay Rumbaoa, Molokai Ranch; Daniel Espaniola, Molokai High School; Carl Vincenti, Modern American Circus; and Dathan Bicoy, Molokai Ranch. Photo by Jessica Ahles

Molokai High School (MHS) and Maunaloa Elementary School received donations from the Modern American Circus during their visit on Molokai Friday, Sept. 13 through Sunday, Sept. 15.

MHS received $500 and Maunaloa received $1,000 after Molokai Ranch agreed to sponsor the circus, providing land and utilities and requested that the circus donate to two local schools, according to a Molokai Ranch news release.

The circus also provided an opportunity for the MHS football team to help clean up after the shows to raise an additional $500 for MHS athletics. Vice Principal Daniel Espaniola said the school will receive a total of $1,000 after the three-day event.

According to a Modern American Circus news release, 40 sponsors across Hawaii provided support with operations, advertising, and marketing to help make the circus a statewide attraction.

“People were very touched by our dedication to take the Circus to all the islands and wanted to be a part of making it happen,” said circus Director Carl Vincenti.

To return the thanks and help support local organizations, the circus partnered with nonprofits to help sell tickets for the event. Each organization was given a unique promo code that could be used for online ticket purchases. They received $2 for each ticket sold under their code.

“We are proud that we have been able to give back to the community through the revenue sharing with the nonprofits and community groups that have partnered with us,” said Vincenti.