Oils Of Aloha Aids Camp Erdman

Eleven military youths recently attended the YMCA’s Camp Erdman summer program courtesy of a monetary donation from the local company, Oils of Aloha.

The $4,000 donation was a result of a campaign that took place during May’s military appreciation month.

“The reason we did it was because the military deserves and needs our respect,” said Matthew Papania, president of Oils of Aloha.

“It was great to receive that donation this year,” said Camp Erdman senior program director Andrew Vanderwege. “One of the things that we’ve been doing over the last few years is really focusing on scholarships for military youths.”

According to its website, the camp’s mission is “to provide positive life-changing experiences for individuals, groups and families through programs that focus on teaching values, developing life skills and building character in a safe, fun and multicultural outdoor setting.”

“The activities are a means to an end,” added Vanderwege, “and the end for us is sending kids home feeling good about themselves, feeling confident and having met new friends.”

Oils of Aloha primarily is known for its kukui oil and macadamia oil products, which are sold locally and worldwide. The company, which is celebrating 25 years of business, recently moved from its initial location in Wailaua to the Schofield Barracks area.

“We believe that the military personnel need our support,” said Papania. “As a company, Oils of Aloha tries to do some type of benefit each year to help support them … We are a small business, but we try to do what we can.”