Luau Raises More Than $20,000 For River Cities United Way

River Cities United Way’s celebrated its inaugural luau fundraiser, “Aloha – The Luau Experience” Nov. 16.

The organization welcomed 250 guests at the sold-out fundraising event featuring a traditional Hawaiian dinner consisting of Kalua Pig, Mahi Mahi, Huli Huli Chicken, and complementing sides.

Luau guests participated in bidding on 39 silent auction items, as well as a 50/50 drawing, before attending a live performance with dancers representing cultures of Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, Fiji and Somoa. The evening was completed with a climactic fire-dance.

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

River Cities United Way raised $20,076.03 in combined ticket sales, silent auction items, 50/50 raffle, and hand-crafted tiki decoration sales.

“Thank you to our community, our sponsors, and our auction donators, the 12 volunteers and United Way staff members for your support,” said Robert Starkey, Director of RCUW marketing .