Mākena Exec to Chair 2015 Maui Charity Walk

Declan McCarthy. Courtesy photo.

By Maui Now Staff

Declan McCarthy, the General manager of the Mākena Beach & Golf Resort, has been selected to serve as the chair of the 2015 Maui County Charity Walk, according to an announcement today from the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association.

“As the 2015 Charity Walk Chairperson, I am honored to represent the residents of Maui County.  It is truly a privilege to lead the efforts for what is sure to be another successful year in Maui County,” said McCarthy in a press release.

For more than 20 years, charity walks on Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi have consistently raised more dollars per capita than a counterpart event hosted on Oʻahu, according to event organizers.

Since the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association started hosting the event in 1980, Maui County has raised a cumulative total of $8.4 million.  The funds raised benefit hundreds of non-profit organizations on Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi, and stay within the community to benefit local residents.

Charity top non-profit agencies recognized (l-r): Karey Wasano, Maui High School Band Director; Ann Cua, Maui High School Band Boosters; Lisa Paulson, Maui Hotel & Lodging Association; Angela Nolan, 2014 Charity Walk Chairman; Denise Thayer, Hale Makua; Alison Wolton, Maui Memorial Medical Center Foundation and Lisa Varde of Maui Memorial Medical Center Foundation. Courtesy photo.

According to event organizers, Maui County alone raised $939,821 in 2014, that translates to 100% more money that what was raised than Oʻahu, with 50% less walkers.  A total of 3,581 walkers participated in the Maui County events last year.

The non-profit Maui Hotel & Lodging Association was founded in 1987 to advocate for the visitor industry. The organization also provides educational opportunities and scholarships for UH Maui College students.  Other annual charity events include the organization’s Kupuna Dinner, and Excellence in Education golf tournament.

The next Visitor Industry Charity Walk will be held May 2, 2015 on Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi; and May 9, 2015 on Maui.