The Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset recently presented its ninth annual vocational service awards, honoring an individual, a non-profit organization, and a local business. These recipients were chosen for exemplifying integrity and the highest standards of ethical conduct, which are integral to Rotary values.

According to organizers, the awardees serve as models for ethical behavior both in the workplace and beyond. This recognition is given to three entities that provide exceptional service to the community and/or the club, and demonstrate the Rotary commitment to “Service Above Self”.

Treecovery Hawaii Inc. received the nonprofit vocational service award for its work with the Army Corps of Engineers in maintaining trees and improving soil in Lahaina and Kula burn zones. The group is partnering with organizations across Maui to plant and monitor new trees over the coming years, at no cost to the community.

Founder Duane Sparkman accepted the award.

Denise “Neesey” Nussbaum received the individual vocational service award. In 2019, Neesey and several West Maui residents founded Aloha Ranch to support those experiencing homelessness. Working with local groups, volunteers, and donors, they provide essential services and support for families in need.

Aloha Ranch received a Rotary District 5000 Foundation grant to supply household items for 450 families relocating to Ka Lai Ola community after the fires. Neesey serves as the primary organizer for essential items required by our community members in need.

Elly’s Formal Wear and Bridal received the vocational service award for providing free tuxedo rentals at two pop-up prom stores, funded by the Rotary District 5000 Foundation Fires Relief Fund.

Rotary leaders said the stores operated at Royal Lahaina Resort and Bungalows over two weekends in December 2024 and March 2025. Lahainaluna High School students booked appointments to select complimentary prom outfits, with a red carpet shopping experience.

The Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset is one of the nine Rotary Clubs located on Maui. Meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of each month.

September meetings are being held at the portable classroom building at Sacred Hearts School, located in Ka`anapali at 2530 Keka’a Drive, Lahaina, 96761.

To learn more, email club official Laura Stanton at lstanton127@outlook.com