Learning by Giving

The Group 70 Foundation was created in 2002 by Group 70 International’s Chairman and CEO Francis Oda, Chief Community Planner George Atta and Architect Dennis Kamae, who wanted to expand their firm’s commitment to building better communities in Hawaii beyond professional services. The foundation offers employees a unique opportunity to give together for the greater good within a corporate setting, and is now headed by Chair Cami Kloster, Vice Chair Kim Evans, Treasurer Scott Tanagonan, Secretary Theresa Ae’a and Hawaii Community Foundation (HCF) Liaison Jim Nishimoto, President of Group 70.

While the Group 70 Foundation provides many avenues to promote the values of giving, its primary vehicle is a donor advised fund at HCF. “As employees, it was important for us to know that we could do something immediately,” says Kim Evans. “Through this fund, we were able to create a legacy in-house that’s a testament to giving. Our staff members who choose to contribute can do so not only by donating to the fund, but they also have the opportunity to lead and participate in the grant-making process.”

Employee donors to the fund work with HCF every year to develop a Request for Proposals (RFP) that reflects their interest in creating a better living environment and building sustainable communities in Hawaii. HCF issues the RFP and reviews proposals to ensure that they fit the fund’s criteria. Based on this process and on recommendations by Group 70 donors, grants are made in five areas of interest: culture, education, design, housing, and environment.

“The benefits of giving back through the fund are enormous,” says Evans. “Participating in the grant-making process helps us better understand the needs of the community. It also allows us to set an example among our industry colleagues and create innovative movements.”

The grant-making process culminates every year in a joint celebration for the year’s recipients and Group 70’s staff.

“It’s truly a remarkable time for our employees and grantees,” Evans says. “Grantees are able to expand their network of resources by meeting each other, and we learn more about our community and have the wonderful opportunity to share in the spirit of giving.”

For more information about the Group 70 Foundation, visit www.group70foundation.com. If you are interested in establishing a Corporate Donor Advised Fund, contact Kalei Stern at kstern@hcf-hawaii.org or at (808) 566-5505.