Posted on: Thursday, June 3, 2004
Students raise $15,000 for shelter
By James Gonser
Advertiser Urban Honolulu Writer
The Institute for Human Services will receive a check for $15,000 today, the proceeds of a benefit concert created and organized by two Punahou School students who just wanted to give something back.
Malama Jam, a variety concert and dance program staged by dozens of students from a number of schools along with a handful of adults, was held May 16 in the Mamiya Theatre at Saint Louis School.
Based on its success, the two ninth-graders are planning more events to help the needy.
"I'm really impressed with everyone's support and really happy with the enthusiasm people had," said Tierney Morikawa, who with classmate River Kim came up with the concept of gathering young people to work together to help the needy. "It was definitely a team effort. It was really cool."
About 40 students and 10 adults organized and ran the event. Also volunteering were the teen acts, which ranged from traditional Hawaiian groups, to Broadway tunes, to a hip-hop dance group, and pop, rock and reggae bands.
Marketed mostly by word-of-mouth and a public service announcement made by Wai'anae High School's Searider Productions, 489 of the 499 theater seats were sold.
Including receipts from a silent auction and food booths, the event grossed $21,000, with about $15,000 of that coming from sponsorships. Expenses totaled about $6,000.
"I'm very glad we did it," Kim said. "It feels good to know you have done something for a good cause by giving your time."
Margot Schrire, volunteer manager with IHS, said because the money does not come with any restrictions on its use as many grants do, it can be used for any aspect of the emergency homeless shelter's operation.
"We are able to really look at the overall agency needs and identity where we need that money most," Schrire said. "I'd have to say it will probably go to cover operating expenses so we can pay our bills on time. Electricity, basic things like that.
"That really does help us. In order to offer showers and meals, we need to pay our bills like everybody else."
Schrire said the fact that this was put together by children from a privileged background makes the donation all the more special.
"There is a lesson there for everybody," she said.
Kim and Morikawa are already thinking about auditioning acts and planning next year's event. If all goes well, Malama Jam will become an annual event to benefit charities and continue long after they are out of the picture.
"They've been changed in the process," said Kim's father, Greg. "Once you see what you can do for other people, it affects you. (Punahou President) Jim Scott says to use your talent to make someone else's life better. Also that with privilege come responsibility."
Reach James Gonser at jgonser@honoluluadvertiser.com or 535-2431.
