AUW sees lowered goal of $13 million within grasp
By Kalani Wilhelm
Advertiser Staff Writer
The Aloha United Way's fund-raising goal for 2003 — $13 million — is the lowest in years, owing to a declining state economy.
Richard Ambo • The Honolulu Advertiser
But United Way officials noted that when it comes to helping the community, there is strength in numbers. That was the overwhelming message yesterday at the kickoff for this year's campaign, focusing on the theme, "You're Stronger Than You Think."
University of Hawai'i Athletic Director Herman Frazier, center, pulls his weight in a celebrity tug-of-war at the Aloha United Way campaign kickoff in Downtown Honolulu. O'ahu residents are asked to pull their weight in the $13 million drive.
"Individual contributions can be small or large, but when those contributions are all combined it adds up to a tremendous amount of support from the community," said AUW campaign chairman David Thomas.
Gov. Linda Lingle, Mayor Jeremy Harris and University of Hawai'i Athletic Director Herman Frazier were among the community leaders on hand during lunchtime festivities at Honolulu's Tamarind Park.
AUW goals hovered around $15 million from the mid- to late 1990s but have dropped steadily since, to $13.2 million last year. Officials attributed that to the state's economy.
Nevertheless, Thomas said this year's goal is attainable. He said he is confident the community will flex its muscles by contributing as much as it can despite tough economic times.
This year's lowered goal comes against a backdrop of increasing requests for help. During the first half of 2003, AUW's requests for food increased by 74 percent, while housing requests have jumped by 63 percent.
To mark the launch of this year's six-week campaign push, which will conclude Oct. 17, AUW set up carnival games and activities revolving around this year's theme. Activities included a tug-of-war contest and an arm-wrestling challenge against Frazier and UH men's basketball coach Riley Wallace. Attendees were also photographed "lifting" a living room couch with one finger.
"We didn't just come here to be involved in athletics and the students, we came here to be a part of the community," Frazier said. "What could be more fitting (than) to be a part of something like this?"
