Mālama o Nā Keiki is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Hawai’i’s high-risk infants and their caregivers by enhancing perinatal care through education, resources, and culturally rooted practices. Since its establishment in 2008, the organization has supported over 250 high-risk babies and pioneered cultural programs tailored to the neonates’ unique needs. Beyond individual care, they have played a significant role in educating the broader community and have reached thousands of community members through targeted educational initiatives, Children and Youth Day events, local and global nursing conferences, and advocacy programs. Mālama o Nā Keiki has maintained a strong presence across Ni’ihau, Kaua'i, O'ahu, Moloka'i, Lana'i, Maui, and Hawai'i Island.
On Monday, September 9th, 2024, Mālama o Nā Keiki hosted the “Celebration of Aloha” in honor of their 25th anniversary. Taking place at the Mid Pacific Country Club, the event began with a day-long golf tournament, followed by an evening of dinner and live entertainment. The event was more than just a gathering–it was a fundraising effort to support the Mālama o Nā Keiki’s mission. The event was organized in partnership with the Wish Makers, a non-profit organization that encourages students to share their talents and passions to support senior homes, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations worldwide. The Wish Makers have members from a multitude of different schools around Oahu, including Punahou, Iolani, Kamehameha, Kalani, and more. Furthermore, the organization has been working to expand globally and currently has members from various areas in Japan, including Shizuoka, Tokyo, Osaka, and Kagoshima, as well as Brazil, California, and Switzerland.
Many members of the Wish Makers attended the “Celebration of Aloha” event, taking photos, helping with VIP guest check-in, providing assistance where needed, and performing with musical instruments. The music playing served not just as entertainment for guests but as a way for talented individuals to display their passion for their instruments. There were eight musicians in total, each of whom played varying string instruments ranging from violins to violas to cellos. The two pieces that were played included Hawaii Aloha and Maui Waltz. These songs were selected because of their Hawaiian origin and were intended to help guests embrace the spirit of Aloha and cultivate a connection to the struggles of babies in need on a deeper level. Though the event took place in Oahu, its purpose was to raise awareness and support for high-risk babies across all the Hawaiian islands. That being said, Maui waltz was especially dedicated to the babies in Maui facing extra struggles due to the recent fires in Lahaina. The members also had the honor of standing before the stage to be recognized by the guests. Aya Okimoto, along with Sophie C. and Asher Y., each took the opportunity to give an introduction and deliver a speech. Those who participated in the event offered to share their thoughts and favorite memories from the experience:
“Giving the speech was memorable because I was able to inform people about the Wish Makers, how we make an impact in our society, and our ambitious goals for the future. Another great memory was hanging out in the back rooms because we got to know each other more as an organization.”
– Sophie C. (Vice President of the Wish Makers)
“I thought that the event altogether was an amazing gathering and opportunity for us as Mālama o Nā Keiki. It was a great chance for the Jr. members and Jr. board to put ourselves out there by helping to make sure the event runs smoothly.”
– Asher Y. (Jr. Board Vice-Chair of Mālama o Nā Keiki and Member of the Wish Makers)
“The event was fun to help out as it provided a very enlightening setting where we were celebrating something very important. Although volunteering and doing tasks itself was fun, I really just enjoyed being with my peers. Doing something meaningful can stretch out to a hundred times better when you do it with the people you love being around. Connecting with my friends, and reconnecting with others, is what makes up my favorite memories!”
– Tatiana C. (Executive Art Director of the Wish Makers)
Check out all the photos from the event!
To learn more about Wish Makers, visit our page!
