Maui Electric’s Kyle Tamori recognized as 2017 Kokua Community Champion

In recognition of exemplary volunteer service to the community, Maui Electric employee Kyle Tamori was named 2017 “Kokua Community Champion” through Maui Electric’s Hawaiian Electric Industries Charitable Foundation. Tamori, a Wailuku resident, dedicates much of his free time teaching life skills and the values of scouting to six boys as a Cub Scouts Den Leader for Pack 40. He also donates his time to being a part of the coaching team that volunteers with the Waikapu Brewers youth baseball team.

“I’m so grateful and humbled to receive this award,” said Tamori, who serves as a dispatch supervisor for Maui Electric. “I love helping and guiding today’s youth, just like how my father did for my friends and I. It’s fulfilling to see the kids learn and progress. I hope I have an impact on them and that someday they choose to give back in the same way.”

As part of the recognition, Tamori selected two non-profits of his choice, Wailuku Shingon Mission and his Cub Scout group Wailuku Hongwanji Mission – Pack 40, to receive a donation of $500 each.

“It takes remarkable character and commitment to be able to make a difference in the lives of our island youth,” said Sharon Suzuki, president of Maui Electric. “We’re proud to have employees, like Kyle, in our Maui Electric ‘ohana who devote their energy and personal time to supporting and mentoring the next generation of future leaders, innovators, and contributors.”

In 2017, Maui Electric donated more than $158,000 in corporate contributions to non-profit and community organizations across Maui County, including donations to support community services provided by Maui United Way, Habitat for Humanity, Hale Makua and the Boys and Girls Club Maui. The company also awarded an annual scholarship for students pursing a degree in the sustainability program at University of Hawai’i Maui College.

Throughout the past year, more than 250 Maui Electric employees and their ‘ohana contributed more than 2,300 volunteer hours to assist with 34 Maui Electric community service projects across Maui County. Volunteer activities included highway beautification through the Adopt-A-Highway program, helping to build a home through Habitat for Humanity, donating blood and fundraising for various charitable organizations.