The Kamaaina Hale apartment complex in Kona held an Ohana Fun Day Feb. 20 for hundreds of families and singles. A collective group of friends called The Tribe approached the complex management team and got the thumbs up to host the event.
The Kamaaina Hale apartment complex in Kona held an Ohana Fun Day Feb. 20 for hundreds of families and singles. A collective group of friends called The Tribe approached the complex management team and got the thumbs up to host the event.
“We wanted to provide our neighbors with an afternoon of music, a shared meal and fun. Spreading aloha and bringing the community together was our aim. And we wanted to pass on the idea that you can do random acts of kindness for your neighbors,” said Teresa Blay, who helped manage the event.
Residents of Kamaaina Hale enjoyed an afternoon of free catering and activities like horseshoe throwing, face painting, a donut-eating contest, and free nail painting. The group also rented a bouncy house from a local vendor, Fun to Jump Kona, which was one of the main attractions.
Kamaaina resident Maua Vole Jr. said, “Finally got to meet and create good relations with our neighbors. It was a good feeling having our community bond and get to know one another. We definitely think these kinds of events should be done again. It was very effective — now we communicate with our neighbors instead of just driving by like strangers.”
The event was paid for through local and online fundraising. People from all over the world contributed financially to make the party happen. The Tribe cooked alongside Chefs In Christ who donated their time in preparation for the party and supplies were donated by area businesses.
“We wanted to provide an afternoon where we could celebrate community, family, and friendship. We hope it will encourage others to join together to see how they can bless their own community. We need each other,” said Blay. “It was a success!”