By Sarah Colson
On May 5, community members danced the night away at the Dawn of Hope Foundation’s 12th annual luau to raise funds for Dawn of Hope Inc.
“We couldn’t do what we do without the support of the proceeds from these fundraising events,” said Lisa Pawley, director of public relations and development for Dawn of Hope Inc.
“The foundation bridges the gap between what we get through federal funding and what the actual cost of business is. Last year we provided items for residential homes for intellectually disabled adults who couldn’t afford to buy bed sheets or personal items, things they need every day. We also helped buy some therapy equipment and helped individuals have funds to go into the community and do activities.
“The funding that we get from state and federal government doesn’t cover those things and those are the little things that make what we do so much better than what a lot of organizations may or may not do.”
This year the luau raised almost $56,000. Last year it raised just over $63,000, mostly because the winner of the grand prize reverse raffle, who won $10,000, donated all the money back to the foundation.
Pawley said that the luau event is not one to miss.
“It’s a great event,” she said. “It’s very casual and has live music but you’re also supporting your community and the adults with intellectual disabilities that live and work and are a part of our community. It’s not just an abstract idea; you get to meet the people who actually benefit from the event.”
To learn more about Dawn of Hope Inc. or Foundation, visit dawnofhope.com.
Dawn of Hope Executive Director Lee Chase (left) and Linda Wexler show off their dance moves at Dawn of Hope’s 12th annual luau.
Jeff Brunson and Amber Denson
Photos by Tara Hodges Sweet Snaps Photography
Deb Oler and Michael Garland are all smiles.
Rachel Pickel (left), David Coleman (center), and Becky Hennessee create some music of their own.
