Going on its tenth year, the Kona Hospital Foundation will host its premier annual gala benefit and golf tournament on November 13 and 14 at the Hokulia Golf Club in Kealakekua. This year’s theme is “Celebrate…Life, Health & Giving.” Proceeds will go toward purchasing patient-care beds in conjunction with the Adopt-A Room Project; a special renovation of 34 patient rooms in the Med/Surg and Skilled Nursing units. The Foundation’s campaign of providing state-of-the-art beds will ensure that those who are cared for at the hospital have a comfortable experience.
“We are fortunate to have a Foundation that is committed to improving the health care needs of our community. Their tireless work is appreciated,” commented Jay Kreuzer, CEO of Kona Community Hospital. “We also would like to thank those who have generously contributed to the Foundation. We know that their support plays a key role to the quality of health care services provided at Kona Community Hospital and to the West Hawaii community.”
The Sunday evening Gala will feature a sunset party at the Hokulia pavilion with delicious food station feasts by Paradise Gourmet Catering, as well as a silent and live auction showcasing the finest Hawaiian artists. The evening will end with a concert under the stars by the Big Island’s own, The Bill Noble Sextet.
The popular golf tournament at the challenging Hokulia golf course on Monday is held with golfers from across the state and the mainland. They will play for serious prizes and bragging rights for the year. The event will conclude with a lavish lunch and awards ceremony at the Hokulia clubhouse.
The Kona Hospital Foundation’s mission is to accept gifts and solicit donations for new medical technology, expanded services and enhanced facilities for Kona Community Hospital. Since its inception, the Foundation has donated over five million dollars towards numerous projects that have improved the hospital. Major endeavors include the Radiation Oncology Center, Imaging Center, Nuclear Medicine Suite, and Outpatient Chemotherapy Building. Many other projects to date include the emergency helicopter landing area, repair and painting of the facility, enhanced directional signage for visitors, medical equipment and education for hospital professionals.
The Foundation’s Board of Trustees include Chair James W. Higgins, Vice Chair Daryl H. Kurozawa, MD, Secretary M.E. “Meg” Greenwell, Trustee Gregory C. Chun, PhD, Trustee Judith-Ann Nakamaru, Trustee Reba Silva, Trustee Jim Stafford, and Trustee Anne Irene Wilcox.
Founded in 1914, Kona Community Hospital is a 94-bed full-service hospital with 24-hour emergency services that supports the west region of the island of Hawaii. It is a member of the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, a special agency of the state of Hawaii established in 1996. It is fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Kona Community Hospital is dedicated to providing and enhancing accessible comprehensive healthcare services to the West Hawaii community.