PO‘IPU — The Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort and Spa presented a check for $18,892.30 to the Kaua‘i United Way on Wednesday at the holiday-themed lobby of the Po‘ipu resort.
“This just happens to be the 4th Annual Hyatt Hotels’ Global Day of Gratitude,” said Katy Britzmann, the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i’s director of sales. “Eighty percent of these funds were contributed by our associates. I’m amazed at the spirit of giving they have. It’s extraordinary. We’re back open from the pandemic shut down, and while we’re not at full staff, the associates who have returned are truly happy to be working, again.”
Britzmann said the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i’s Jena Gibson and Shelbie Reilly co-chaired the resort’s campaign to give to the United Way, and simply let the associates know of the wide-ranging services that the Kaua‘i United Way provides for the island.
“Kaua‘i United Way and the more than 80 services provided by its 25 participating agencies impacts almost every one people know,” Britzmann said. “If people become aware of that, it’s easy to help.”
Lori Almarza, the Acting Director for the Kaua‘i United Way was appreciative of the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i’s presentation.
“We are so grateful for the support of the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i and its ‘ohana for this gift that will go toward the Kaua‘i United Way’s $550,000 Campaign goal,” Almarza said. “There is still time for other people to step forward with contributions to this goal.”
Britzmann said awareness is the key to giving.
“When people find out how many people and who the Kaua‘i United Way helps, it’s hard to say ‘no,’” she said.
Kaua‘i United Way is an independent, IRS-certified nonprofit organization that has been dedicated to serving the social service needs of the entire island since 1943.
All monies raised on Kaua‘i stay on Kaua‘i.
The Hyatt Hotels’ Global Day of Gratitude was created as part of the Hyatts’ commitment to caring for the wellbeing of its colleagues, guests, and customers.
Information: kauaiunitedway.org.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
