FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hawai‘i Island United Way (HIUW) Announces Inaugural Givers Gala to Celebrate Nonprofit Sector Champions

Hilo, HI – May 27, 2025 — Hawai‘i Island United Way (HIUW) is proud to announce the inaugural Givers Gala, an evening dedicated to honoring the heartists of Hawai‘i Island’s nonprofit community. The event will take place on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Event Center at Arc of Hilo.

The Givers Gala will spotlight the remarkable individuals and organizations who work tirelessly to uplift lives and strengthen our island ‘ohana. The evening will feature an elegant gala dinner with local flavors and entertainment, stories of impact that highlight the power of giving, and networking opportunities with community leaders, philanthropists, and advocates.

A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Ripple Effect Awards, recognizing outstanding nonprofit employees, boots-on-the-ground-champions and leaders. Nine prestigious awards will be presented, including the “Human Spark Plug Energizer Award” and the “To Infinity and Beyond Go Getter Award.”

“The Givers Gala is our way of honoring those who give selflessly and work passionately to make our island a better place for all,” said Jess Thompson, HIUW’s chief professional officer. “We invite the community to join us in celebrating the compassion, commitment, and community spirit that define Hawai‘i Island.”

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, October 24, 2025

  • Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

  • Location: Event Center at Arc of Hilo, 1099 Waianuenue Ave, Hilo, HI 96720

Tickets are available for purchase online at Humanitix. All proceeds will support HIUW’s mission to build a healthier Hawai‘i Island by uniting people, organizations, and resources.

For more information about the Givers Gala, including sponsorship opportunities and award nominations, please visit giversgala.com or contact Jess at cpo@hiuw.org or (808) 935-2445 x-2.

About Hawai‘i Island United Way:

Hawai‘i Island United Way is a 59-year-old nonprofit organization uniting people, organizations, and resources to build a healthier Hawai‘i Island. HIUW is the only United Way focused solely on Hawai‘i Island, working to improve the lives of the people who call our island home.

###