On October 15, Nareit Hawaii held its 5th Annual Mahalo Reception to honor nonprofits supporting affordable housing in Hawaii and present this year’s recipients of Nareit Foundation grants.
A roomful of affordable housing advocates, business executives, lawmakers, and community leaders packed the prestigious Pacific Club in Honolulu to celebrate affordable housing success stories and recognize nonprofits committed to improving the lives of families needing support.
Hawaii Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke was the evening’s featured speaker and praised the dedication of nonprofits to provide affordable housing solutions. “Every single dollar that you spend on these organizations, it's going to make a huge difference, not just small changes, but monumental changes to help and uplift our community,” said Lt. Governor Luke.
Nareit President and CEO Steve Wechsler spoke about the positive impact of REITs to Hawaii’s economy and in supporting the grants awarded by the Nareit Foundation.
“On behalf of Nareit and the REITs throughout Hawaii, we’re honored to help improve the lives of Hawaii’s residents and families in need of affordable housing. Tonight is a wonderful opportunity to say thank you to all the nonprofits that are giving back to the communities in Hawaii. We look forward to continuing our support for Hawaii’s nonprofits, many, many years to come,” said Wechsler.
The Nareit Foundation and Nareit Hawaii have collectively awarded 62 grants totaling $3.8 million in support of affordable housing projects and charitable causes since the Nareit Hawaii Community Giving Initiative was launched seven years ago.
Nareit Hawaii Executive Director Gladys Quinto Marrone announced the five Nareit Foundation grant awardees for 2025 and highlighted the diversity of affordable housing programs being supported with the funding (list below).
Kunia Village Development Corporation is replacing outdated electrical systems and wiring on 30 plantation-style rental homes built more than 80 years to provide affordable housing for agricultural workers and retirees on Oahu.
Molokai Affordable Housing Alliance is installing a rainwater catchment system for consumption, gardening and farming to help low- and moderate-income residents struggling with severe housing instability and food insecurity on Molokai.
Project Hawaii is improving the affordable housing accommodations for six at-risk women attending college on Hawaii Island by installing new bath and shower rooms, new bedrooms, and a new student service center.
Project Vision Hawaii is making improvements to eight apartment units in Honolulu, including two new washer and dryer sets in the laundry room, plumbing repairs in the kitchens and bathrooms, and installing new furnishings to help residents transition out of homelessness.
The Institute for Human Services is refurbishing the community basketball court at Kahauiki Village in Honolulu, providing at-risk children and teens with a safe location for structured activities and positive experiences to build their self-esteem.