Ross Shinyama
Honolulu Professionals Foundation invites the public to Party Four A Purpose from 6 to 10 p.m. July 2 at Pomaikai Ballrooms at Dole Cannery to benefit The International Dyslexia Association Hawaii branch and Hawaii Literacy.
According to foundation president Ross Shinyama, the organization throws its Fourth of July weekend celebration every year.
“In the past three years alone we’ve raised more than $100,000 for local nonprofits,” he says. “The only way we’re able to do that is we have extreme community help from everyone involved.”
Past recipients include Sunshine Kids, Hawaii High School Athletic Association Save Our Sports, Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii, Kupu, R.E.A.C.H., Aloha Medical Mission and Surfrider Spirit Sessions.
Honolulu Professionals Foundation started as a nonprofit in 2008 as a way to connect with young professionals while doing some good.
“It was basically a bunch of friends who decided to start giving back to the community,” explains Shinyama, who works at Watanabe Ing LLP. “I enjoy working with many people who I call friends and seeing what we can put together.”
The organization has grown to about 20 members now, and everyone volunteers their time and resources — especially for the upcoming party, which features a silent auction, raffle, and live music by Kaiholu, Kupaoa, Nathan Aweau, and Jeff Rasmussen & Robi Kahakalau.
For those age 21 and older, there also will be hosted beer, wine and specialty drinks.
Last year’s event saw more than 400 people attend, and Shinyama expects nearly 600 guests this year.
With such a large event, Shinyama feels a sense of pride in what Honolulu Professionals Foundation is able to accomplish.
“It’s great to see when we put this much effort into it how great the product comes out,” he says. “The best thing is when we hear the feedback from the beneficiaries. They’re amazed at how much we can get done in a short amount of time.
“They’re thrilled.”
Tickets can be purchased online at:
honoluluprofessionals.org
emailing info@honoluluprofessionals.org
