Mauis Lei of Aloha for World Peace is a partner in the March 18 Aloha for Ukraine fundraiser

Maui’s Lei from Aloha for World Peace has partnered with Nalu’s South Shore Grill, ekolu kitchen 1279 and local Maui musicians to raise funds for organizations and volunteers in Ukraine and neighboring countries.

The fundraiser’s mission is to bring the spirit of Aloha and a message of solidarity to the families suffering from the invasion of Ukraine.

“Historically, lei of aloha weaves miles of lei as a physical manifestation of aloha, but this time its meaning is more of a kaona, or metaphor of a lei: woven together with love, connection across the miles, pico to pico (belly to belly): we are one” , said the organizers of the event.

On Friday, March 18th:

• Nalus South Shore Grill will donate 100% of proceeds from breakfast, lunch and dinner, with all-day entertainment featuring Alika Nakaoka, Anthony Pffluke, Benny Uyetake, Kenny Roberts, Ron Kualaʻau, Rama Camarillo, Joey Viera, Damien Awai, Mondo Kane, Jarret Roback, Wilson Kanakaole , Brado Mamalias, Gabe Goebbert, Brian Challahan, Ronnie Aina, Hale Villarimo, Ethan Villanueva, Keola Dumlao, Kawika Sabado, Kaleo Cullens and Tarvin Makia.
• ekolu kitchen 1279 will donate 100% of proceeds from the Entertainment Dinner to feature Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning singer Amy Hānaialiʻi along with other musicians. Executive Chef partner Geno Saremiento has created a special four-course bistro dinner ($100 per person) at his newly opened restaurant in support of the cause. Joining Hānaialiʻi are: Jarret Roback, Eric Gilliom, Vince Esquire, Wilson Kanakaole, Marcus Johnson, Paul Marchetti and the Mark Johnstone Trio.

The donations will go to nonprofit partner Toy Parade, Inc. to support humanitarian efforts for families affected by the attacks in Ukraine, including refugees and displaced children.

A GoFundMe An account has also been set up to accept donations online from those unable to attend Friday’s fundraisers. Cash and check donations may also be made payable to Toy Parade, Inc. and dropped off at Nalu’s South Shore Grill or ekolu kitchen 1279.