River Cities United Way’s Aloha -The Luau Experience Raises More Than $20,000

By Janet Cruz

River Cities United Way’s annual Aloha – The Luau Experience fundraiser brought in more than $20,000 Nov. 12, and it’s all for a good cause.

The annual fundraiser is hosted by River Cities United Way with the help of local sponsors in the community. The nonprofit raises funds on behalf of various nonprofit organizations in Lake Havasu City, as well as the Lake Havasu City Police Department Explorers – Post 93.

“I love being part of this event it’s been around for three years now and all the funds raised stay local,” said Debi Pennington President and CEO of River Cities United Way. “We always are grateful for our sponsors who make this possible.”

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

River Cities United Way is a nonprofit organization that promotes financial stability, health and education of people in La Paz and Mohave counties. The organization’s goal is to ensure everyone has access to opportunities. The annual Aloha – The Luau Experience is one way the nonprofit raises funds for their causes.

With every ticket sold, guests enjoyed a traditional Luau dinner which included Kalua Pig, Mahi-Mahi and Huli-Huli Chicken in a beautiful transformed Island Oasis created by High End Productions and the Nautical Inn Beach Front Resort Convention Center. Sponsors included Anderson Toyota, Lin’s Little China and UniSource. A photo booth was available to all guests. Two bars and lots of music and entertainment from Hawaiian dancers was also provided.

“We do different levels of shows and we travel out of Las Vegas to come and perform.” We have a bunch of groups. This group has been coming to this event for three years and we enjoy it,” said Lily Dang, Hula dancer with Las Vegas Hula.

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Attendees were also greeted with flower Leis and were able to place their bids at the silent auction. Prizes were donated by local businesses and community members .

“Taking care of those in our community is what this community is about,” said Pennington. “That is our goal. We also have partners who help us so much. Things cannot be done with out our partners and local nonprofits,” adds Pennington. “Together we can create such a great impact.”

A complete list of sponsors includes Anderson Toyota, Nautical Beach Front Resort, Lin’s Little China, UniSource,Cares First, Dot Foods, London Bridge Resort, North Country Healthcare, PNC Bank, Springberg McAndrew, JC Penny’s, Just 4 Fun Motor Sports, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Arizona and High End Productions.

For more information on River Cities United Way or to make a donation, visit their website at www.rcuw.org.

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Linda Seaver speaks at the River Cities United Way Luau. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Michele Lin speaks at the River Cities United Way Luau. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Samantha Zasadil/RiverScene

Samantha Zasadil/RiverScene

Samantha Zasadil/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Hula dancers perform a wedding dance at the River Cities United Way Luau Saturday evening. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Samantha Zasadil/RiverScene

Samantha Zasadil/RiverScene

Samantha Zasadil/RiverScene

A fire dancer performs at the River Cities United Way Luau. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

1 Comment » Comments:

One Response to “River Cities United Way’s Aloha -The Luau Experience Raises More Than $20,000”

Mele Luau says:

May 13, 2023 at 6:08 am

I was thrilled to read about the success of River Cities United Way’s “Aloha: The Luau Experience” and its incredible achievement in raising over $20,000. It is heartwarming to witness such a generous outpouring of support from the community.

The dedication and hard work put into organizing the luau experience must be commended. Events like these not only bring people together for a memorable evening but also serve as a powerful means to raise funds for important causes. The fact that the proceeds will go toward supporting United Way’s initiatives is truly remarkable.

United Way has a long-standing reputation for making a positive impact in communities, and this achievement further solidifies its commitment to creating lasting change. The funds raised will undoubtedly go a long way in supporting programs and initiatives that tackle crucial issues and uplift those in need.

I would also like to express my gratitude to all the attendees, sponsors, volunteers, and organizers who contributed to the success of the event. Their enthusiasm and generosity have undoubtedly made a difference in the lives of individuals and families in the community.

Once again, congratulations to River Cities United Way and everyone involved in making “Aloha: The Luau Experience” such a resounding success. Your dedication to improving lives and building a stronger community is truly inspiring. I look forward to reading more about the impactful work of United Way and the positive change it continues to bring.