Maui Youth Rodeo Organization to hold benefit gala Nov. 21 in Makawao

The Maui Youth Rodeo Organization will host its annual Champagne & Champions Gala on Nov. 21 at the Oskie Rice Event Center Ranch Clubhouse in Makawao, with proceeds supporting youth rodeo programs.

Doors open at 5 p.m. at the clubhouse, located at 521 Olinda Road. According to the organization, the evening will include a four-course dinner prepared by Chef David Vilanti, live and silent auctions, and entertainment.

Tickets are available through Ticketleap. The organization did not list ticket prices in its announcement.

The nonprofit said it depends on community donations to keep rodeo affordable and accessible for local youth. Funds help it offer clinics and training for all skill levels, provide awards and scholarships, support travel opportunities, and maintain safe arenas with quality livestock.

People who want to donate items for the live and silent auctions can email mauiyouthrodeoorg@gmail.com.

The Maui Youth Rodeo Organization, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2016, says its mission is to preserve Maui’s paniolo, or cowboy, heritage by encouraging young people to take up rodeo. The group says it offers keiki and teens a family-oriented setting to learn horsemanship, sportsmanship and teamwork through rodeo events, clinics and scholarship opportunities.

More information about the organization is available at MauiYouthRodeo.org.