If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my time at Foodland, it’s that everyone who knew our company founder, Maurice J. “Sully” Sullivan brightens up at the mention of his name. Although the business world remembers him as one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the history of Hawaii, local folks remember him best for being warm, kind hearted and generous.
I had heard of Sully before I came to work for Foodland, but I didn’t realize how long and impressive his list of accomplishments was until I walked through our lobby one day and saw his many awards on display. Not only was he honored as Philanthropist of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year, Distinguished Citizen of the Year, member of the Hawaii Business Hall of Fame and more, he was also recognized by several past presidents of the United States for his leadership in our community!
I wish I could say I knew Sully personally, but unfortunately he had passed away before I arrived at Foodland. Yet I know he was a man who cared deeply about the many community organizations on which he actively served. Fortunately, these organizations and hundreds more, are still able to benefit from Sully’s legacy by participating in Foodland’s Annual Community Matching Gifts Program, Give Aloha.
Here are a few of my favorite facts about Give Aloha:
• Give Aloha was created 12 years ago after Sully’s passing to continue his legacy of giving back generously to the community.
• Since its beginning in 1999, more than $14 million has been raised to help Hawaii’s charities build a better Hawaii.
• Last year alone, more than $1.7 million was raised for over 600 participating organizations.
To me, Give Aloha, which runs through the month of September, is a great way to celebrate Sully’s legacy while allowing our customers to support their favorite participating non-profit organization. It’s our way of working together with our customers to make Hawaii a better place – just like Sully always did.
For details on the program click here.