If you’re a regular reader and have the capacity to do so, making an online contribution to Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative today would be hugely helpful.

There, I said it.

Fundraising 101 – Rule #1 – You gotta ask.

It’s hard. Normally I wait way too long and keep thinking the money will just show up, perhaps fall from a nearby tree.

But the truth is, the money doesn’t just show up – You have to ask.

So I’m asking. On behalf of Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative – Are you able to help today, prior to August 1?

That’s rule #2 – The asking should not be just open-ended, but should be tied to a date and to a purpose which is rule #3.

While administrative costs for Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative (PHI) are minimal, we do have expenses that must be paid – accounting, travel between islands, incidental research, printing on occasion etc. When sufficient funding allows for it I will sometimes receive a small stipend that helps with the day-to-day expenses that I incur going about the business of being a full time advocate.

Rule #5 – Disclose anything that needs to be disclosed so the donor is fully informed
Note: For the record none of the contributions received via todays request will be used for lobbying or for the direct support or opposition of any candidate running for public office. Note2: While PHI is a 501c(4) nonprofit entity – contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions.

Rule #6 – Ask for a specific amount.

The formula. Ask. Ask for a specific amount, for a specific purpose, by a specific date.

Whether $10 or $1,000, any and all help is welcome and much needed. Our goal is to raise $8,000 between now and August 1, which will cover our core administrative costs through to the end of 2023. If you prefer mailing in a check: Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative, P.O. Box 871, Honolulu, HI 96808.

Rule #7 – Ask again and say thank you.

Please – If you can help Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative (PHI) with an online contribution, now is a good time. The cupboard is bare. We have administrative costs that must be paid and any amount from $10 to $1,000 before August 1 would be hugely appreciated, help us reach our $8,000 goal and take us to the end of the year.

Mahalo to all. Truly. Your support and your ongoing help is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,
Gary Hooser
Executive Director
Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative