Maui’s Ruth Griffith, Adele Rugg honored at Kupuna Aloha Luncheon

Ruth Griffith of Kaunoa Senior Services and a survivor of the Lahaina wildfires, and volunteer Adele Rugg were honored as Kupuna Advocates of the Year at the 52^nd Kupuna Aloha Luncheon on Saturday at the Grand Wailea.

More than 600 kupuna packed the Haleakalā Ballroom – the largest gathering of the event since the COVID-19 pandemic – to meet 20 candidates for office and representatives of a handful of organizations that support kupuna, listen to the music of Kopaʻa Tita, take home scores of door prizes, partake of lunch and recognize the two Kupuna Advocates of the Year.

The event was produced by Maui Economic Opportunity and hosted by the Maui County Planning & Coordinating Council, consisting of 53 senior clubs across the county. More than 300 attendees were transported to the Grand Wailea by MEO buses.

Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen addressed the kupuna, many dressed in their finest, snapping selfies and enjoying the company of one another.

Luke praised MEO for supporting those impacted by the wildfires.

“Right after the Maui fires, one of the first organizations that we called was MEO. No matter what we needed… I called Debbie first and foremost,” said Luke, referring to MEO CEO Debbie Cabebe.

“It was really uplifting, especially in light of all the devastation and tragedy, just to see the community come together and help each other… to love each other, to take care of each other,” she said.

Bissen praised the Kupuna Advocates of the Year, “whose contributions have shaped the very fabric of our county, community and everyone who lives in our community.”

“Their tireless efforts have not only preserved the rich cultural heritage of our Maui Nui but have also moved us toward a brighter future, whether through their dedicated service or their deep love for this community,” he said. “They have left a lasting, positive impact for each of us. 

“Our kupuna embody the true essence of community spirit.”

Griffith is the Senior Services Administrator for Kaunoa Senior Services, a Maui County agency that provides meals, educational activities and companionship opportunities for kupuna. Born and raised in Lahaina, Griffith had to flee the wildfires of Aug. 8. Her Front Street home was damaged, but she was able to return in February.

In the wake of the wildfires, Kaunoa staff led by Griffith mobilized to locate all participants in programs, including those who relocated out of the west side; restored Meals on Wheels service to all participants within two days; maintained a daily presence at the Disaster Recovery Center; and assisted clients with supplies, such as walkers, glasses, wheelchairs and beds in partnership with other agencies.

“We lead by heart, we work for you because we love you so much,” said Griffith, in remarks that brought tears to her eyes and many in the audience.

During her introduction of Rugg, emcee Debbie Cabebe listed the more than a dozen organizations to which the honoree currently belongs: Board president of Maui Green & Beautiful; board member of MEO, Kīhei Community Association and Kīhei Canoe Club; “First State Coordinator” for the annual celebration recognizing her home state of Delaware; Queen Diva Dell-Luscious of the Red Hot Mamas of Maui. She also keeps an eye on South Maui parks as part of the Citizens’ Patrol and an eye out for nesting honu as a member of the Dawn Patrol.

In 2011, she was named Outstanding Older American.

Rugg moved to Maui in 1980 and worked as a legal secretary with the National Transportation Safety Board investigating the Aloha 243 emergency landing, a construction secretary and an executive assistant to Council Member and Mayor Alan Arakawa.

In 2011, Adele was named Outstanding Older American.

“I look out here and go ‘it takes a village.’ All of the kupuna advocates are out here,” she said, pointing to the audience. “I am just honored to be here today because you 600 make it happen.”