The check presentation from Maui United Way and volunteer partners to Lahainaluna athletics included (from left) Kainoa Casco, Jeeyun Lee, Palani Wright, Mikey Burke, Lahainaluna High School Principal Richard Carosso, Danny Kauvaka, Chris Smith, Lehua Leong, Lahainaluna Athletics Jonathan Conrad, Christopher Wegner, Keoni Moore and Jake Kiyohiro. Photo courtesy Maui United Way

Maui United Way has awarded $10,000 to Lahainaluna High School’s athletics department, as part of the nonprofit’s efforts to uplift West Maui families and students.

The gift follows the first Lahainaluna Firebreak Community Work Day, in which more than 60 community members, alumni, partner organizations and student-athletes gathered to help restore and protect the high school’s campus.

The effort cleared invasive foliage and strengthened fire protection around the upper campus while supporting long-term resilience and uplifting school spirit.

To pull off the work, Maui United Way teamed up with Lahainaluna High School, Maui Land & Pineapple Company, Lahaina Excavation, Hawaiian Electric, Maui Emergency Management Agency and LHS alumni networks.

“Our students and athletes are the heartbeat of this campus,” said Lahainaluna Athletic Director Jonathan Conrad, who spent the day coordinating and working alongside volunteers. “The support of our community means everything right now. The firebreak project and the generosity shown by Maui United Way and our partners will help us keep our kids safe, active and proud to represent Lahainaluna.”

Maui United Way’s Board Chair Chris Smith emphasized the donation reflects a commitment to West Maui.

“Lahainaluna has shaped generations of leaders who carry Lunas pride throughout Maui and beyond,” Smith said. “Investing in Lahainaluna athletics is an investment in resilience, identity, and in the next generation.”

According to Maui United Way, the $10,000 donation will provide critical support for travel, equipment and safe facilities.

Also, Maui United Way and partners expect to host additional volunteer days in the future to expand fire protection and provide continued restoration support.

“We are incredibly grateful to the volunteers who rolled up their sleeves to protect this special place,” said Mikey Burke, West Maui Community Liaison at Hawaiian Electric. “We remain committed to standing with Lahaina and helping safeguard the places where our keiki learn, compete and grow.”