PUHI — A blessing this summer was a big step toward students at the Kawaikini New Century Public Charter School being able to enjoy a new pavilion for their midday meal and outdoor-classroom activities, said Leilani Spencer, executive director of Supporting the Language of Kaua‘i, Inc.
The blessing was held following a contribution of $100,000 by longtime Kaua‘i businessman Adolf Befurt to support the construction of a pavilion where students can enjoy lunch and outdoor activities for the Kawaikini School’s secondary program.
“This generous donation will make a huge difference in allowing us to move forward with our project,” said Kawaikini Executive Director Jessell Tanaka. “The pavilion is critically needed to provide additional space for our secondary-program students during lunch and school-day activities. It will also be used for after-school activities and parent gatherings as well as other cultural activities.”
Kahu Jade Wai‘ale‘ale, in officiating the blessing, spoke of the history of Kawaikini, and how the community has been integral in supporting the school’s mission to preserve and perpetuate Hawaiian culture.
Befurt’s contribution is just the latest way the community has helped, Spencer said.
Befurt arrived on Kaua‘i as a young immigrant with only a few dollars in his pocket and a dream of a better life in a new country, new family of the Kaua‘i people and the Hawaiian country. He started an auto body shop, Adolf’s Body Shop, in Lihu‘e, that became quite successful over the many years of operation.
“Mr. Befurt made the donation because he believes in supporting the Native Hawaiian culture, and saw an opportunity to make a real difference,” Spencer said. “He feels blessed that he can offer his support to Supporting the Language of Kaua‘i, Inc., and the Kawaikini NCPCS.”
Befurt was honored with mahalo mele for his kokua by the school’s faculty, students and parents during the blessing.
“I hope this donation will enable them to fulfill their vision and enhance their campus,” Befurt said. “I want to encourage other people to consider contributing to this project so it can be seen through to completion. This is one of the best days I’ve had in a while. It’s all the thanks I need.”
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
