HC&S Launches $100K Initiative to Fund Maui Projects

HC&S Puʻunēnē Mill in Kahului. Photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company today announced the launch of a $100,000 community initiative fund to support Maui-based programs and projects that enhance the quality of life on the island.

“At HC&S, we take pride in being part of this community and are inspired by Maui’s people and culture,” said Rick Volner, HC&S general manager in a company press release.

“The HC&S Community Initiative was created to provide opportunities for residents to seek grants, large or small, from HC&S to support creative projects and innovative ideas to build a better Maui,” he said.

Grant applications are available beginning today on the HC&S website, and must be submitted by a May 31, 2014, deadline.

The selection committee will consider applicants who are federally-recognized non-profit groups with 501(c)(3) status, and other registered non-profits or community based projects that serve Maui.

According to the announcement, organizations should have a minimum of three years of existence or should have experience in their field for a minimum of three years.

The HC&S Community Initiative is managed by an advisory committee that includes: Tom Blackburn-Rodriguez, Bill Snipes and Rick Volner, according to the company website.

The committee is scheduled to convene in June to review applications, with grants to be awarded for projects and programs that provide overall community benefit, natural resource stewardship and sustainability, and education, according to the announcement.

“This $100,000 fund is intended to support community initiatives that reflect our core values, which include preserving Maui’s unique culture, supporting thoughtful growth and sustainability on the island, and ensuring educational and training programs are available to nurture our future generations,” said Volner.

The company notes that HC&S and its parent company, Alexander & Baldwin, have awarded more than $465,000 to Maui non-profits over the 17 month period through December 2013.

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company is the last remaining sugar plantation in the state, with an estimated 36,000 acres in cultivation, and 800 full-time employees.