Events

Guest speaker Maureen Purington is an innovative nonprofit leader with a proven track record of building sustainable funding and programs that put families first. Since December 2023, she has served as Executive Director of HUGS (Help, Understanding & Group Support), leading statewide efforts to support Hawai‘i families navigating the challenges of caring for a seriously ill child.

Prior to joining HUGS, Maureen spent 15 years as Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Hawai‘i’s Windward Clubhouse in Kailua, transforming it into a nationally recognized, high-performing Clubhouse. Under her leadership, daily attendance grew from fewer than 10 youth to more than 160, the annual budget more than tripled, and a $7.5 million capital campaign brought a new state-of-the-art clubhouse to life. She is known for her hands-on leadership, nurturing staff so they can fully support the children and families they serve, and for her deep commitment to strengthening communities across Hawai‘i.

Guest speaker Maureen Purington is an innovative nonprofit leader with a proven track record of building sustainable funding and programs that put families first. Since December 2023, she has served as Executive Director of HUGS (Help, Understanding & Group Support), leading statewide efforts to support Hawai‘i families navigating the challenges of caring for a seriously ill child.

Prior to joining HUGS, Maureen spent 15 years as Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Hawai‘i’s Windward Clubhouse in Kailua, transforming it into a nationally recognized, high-performing Clubhouse. Under her leadership, daily attendance grew from fewer than 10 youth to more than 160, the annual budget more than tripled, and a $7.5 million capital campaign brought a new state-of-the-art clubhouse to life. She is known for her hands-on leadership, nurturing staff so they can fully support the children and families they serve, and for her deep commitment to strengthening communities across Hawai‘i.

RSVP is required to ensure a seat and lunch. Payment ($40) can be made online or at the door.

Unable to join us in person this week?  Hop on the Zoom session (opens 5 to 15 minutes before the meeting)

The competition heats up as winners from Round I return to battle it out in Mexican Train Dominoes Tournament – Round II! Join us in the beautiful community room of Uraku Tower (Mary Ann Berry’s condo) for an evening of camaraderie, friendly rivalry, and plenty of laughs.

Even if you didn’t advance from Round I, we encourage you to attend and cheer on your fellow members—enjoy the food, fellowship, and fun!

President Lani Paet hosts her first Club Assembly—a time for committees to share updates, celebrate accomplishments, and collaborate on upcoming projects. Strengthen your connection to the club and see how you can get more involved. RSVP is required to ensure a seat and lunch. Payment ($40) can be made online or at the door.

Unable to join us in person this week?  Hop on the Zoom session (opens 5 to 15 minutes before the meeting)

Join us in making a difference for families caring for seriously ill children by supporting HUGS Hawai‘i—Help, Understanding, and Group Support. This incredible program strengthens Hawai‘i’s families by providing them with a much-needed break from the constant demands of caregiving.

For November’s Monthly Respite Program, our club will run the games and activities for HUGS children and their siblings (ages 6 months to 12 years), creating a safe, supportive space filled with fun and laughter. Each child will have a dedicated buddy for one-on-one attention and encouragement. We’ll also host a dinner buffet for the kids, giving parents the gift of time to relax, recharge, or tend to personal needs.

This is a hands-on service opportunity to bring joy, connection, and relief to families who need it most.

Volunteer Sign Up OPENING SOON!

Roz Cooper (RC Metropolitan Honolulu) is the Hawai'i Rotary District 5000 End Polio Now (EPN) Coordinator and Rich Courson (RC Ala Moana) is the club's TRF Chair.  They will share why Rotary’s End Polio Now Campaign still matters—especially as we stand “this close” to eradicating polio. With fresh insights and local perspective, Roz and Rich will highlight the critical final steps, the impact of Rotary’s efforts worldwide, and why our continued commitment is essential to finishing what Rotary began.

We’re honored to welcome Roz Cooper (RC Metropolitan Honolulu), District 5000’s End Polio Now Coordinator, along with our own Rich Courson, TRF Chair, for a powerful conversation on Rotary’s signature cause: the End Polio Now Campaign.

Yes, we’ve all heard that Rotary is “this close” to eradicating polio—but why does it still matter? Roz and Rich will help us understand the final, critical steps in the global fight, why we cannot stop short, and what success will mean not just for polio, but for Rotary’s role in global health for generations to come.

This isn’t just about history—it’s about finishing what we started and proving the power of Rotary when we work together. Expect real insights, local perspective, and an inspiring reminder of why our contributions continue to make a difference.  RSVP is required to ensure a seat and lunch. Payment ($40) can be made online or at the door.

Unable to join us in person this week?  Hop on the Zoom session (opens 5 to 15 minutes before the meeting)

Mark your calendars for our Annual Holiday Party—a festive evening to celebrate the season, share fellowship, and reflect on another year of service and friendship.We'll gather at Uncle Bo's Pupu Bar and Grill for an all you can eat buffet (menu to follow soon).  Expect great food, laughter, and holiday cheer with your Rotary ʻohana.  Bring your family including your children and grandchildren.

Adults:  $75.00 per person
Children ages 13 to 18:  $35.00 per person
Children under 13:  $25.00 per person

RSVP and PAY ONLINE

Our featured guest speaker is one of our very own—Gerald Shintaku, agent with Premier Benefits Consultant and proud member of the Rotary Club of Ala Moana. Gerald specializes in helping people navigate the complex world of health insurance, including understanding Medicare options, transitioning from employer-based coverage, and choosing the right plan for retirement.

This luncheon is extra special: not only will you hear valuable insights on a topic that affects many of us and our loved ones, but it’s also like experiencing a Rotary Vocational Moment—a chance to celebrate the professional expertise of a fellow member while learning something important and timely.

RSVP is required to ensure a seat and plated lunch. Payment ($40) can be made online or at the door.

Unable to join us in person this week?  Hop on the Zoom session (opens 5 to 15 minutes before the meeting)

One of our club’s most beloved legacy projects, Santa Clothes captures the spirit of the season and the heart of Rotary service. This year, we’ll host 20–25 students from Lunalilo Elementary School—selected by the school principal—for a $100 shopping spree at Walmart Honolulu located on Keeaumoku.

Each child will shop with Rotarian partners for school supplies, clothing, and a small holiday gift, creating memories and bringing joy during the holiday season. It’s a hands-on reminder of why we serve—and a highlight of the year for both the students and our members.

Volunteer Opportunity COMING SOON!

Our final meeting of 2025 will feature guest speaker Mariko Higashi from the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset. Mariko will give us an update on the rebuilding of Lahaina since the Maui wildfires disaster in 2023. Come for the fellowship, stay for the inspiration—and get ready for an exciting year ahead. RSVP is required to ensure a seat and lunch. Payment ($40) can be made online or at the door.

Unable to join us in person this week?  Hop on the Zoom session (opens 5 to 15 minutes before the meeting)