Every year around this time we like to remind readers to support the Friends of the Children's Justice Center of Maui.
How can you do so? By attending their sixth annual "Malama i na Keiki" fundraiser on Friday, Oct. 19, at King Kamehameha Golf Club. Or, if you prefer, you may donate an item for the live and silent auctions that will take place that night.
This year's fundraiser will honor the Mark and Debi Rolfing Foundation. Entertainment will include magician Brenton Keith and musician Ranga Pae. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a reception and no-host bar. At 6:30 p.m., an Asian buffet will be served with complimentary wine.
Since 1989, the Friends have been providing assistance to abused and neglected children in Maui County. They also work to promote prevention of child abuse and neglect and to support the Children's Justice Center of Maui.
Last year they provided funding for direct services for 795 children as well as paying for Christmas gifts for 1,500 children. They engaged in public education about child abuse by distributing over 24,000 copies of a newspaper supplement dealing with prevention.
And, talk about efficient - the Friends do all this with one paid staff person and a bunch of dedicated volunteers.
They don't receive any federal, state, or county funding. They rely on money from two trusts, charities and a few companies. They also get help from you - at a couple of fundraisers each year.
You can help. Donate an item (or items) for one of the auctions. You can either attend as an individual or book a table for 10. You may call 986-8634 to provide an item for auction or to book reservations.
You must RSVP by Oct. 12.
Among items already donated for the auctions are a trip to Lanai; trips to Europe; a dinner for six provided by Molly Wilson and Paul Alkire; a handmade ukulele; a canoe trip with picnic; and a diamond necklace.
As we've noted in this space before, the FCJC's motto - "It shouldn't hurt to be a child" - is both heartbreaking and moving. You can help restore hope to abused and neglected children. Donate an item and attend the fundraiser.
* Editorials reflect the opinion of the publisher.
