Paradise Helicopters Donates $10,000 to Assist Big Island Communities By Big Island Now August 9, 2018, 9:14 AM HST (Updated August 9, 2018, 9:20 AM)
Paradise Helicopters tour company is donating $10,000 to relief efforts for communities on the Island of Hawai‘i affected by recent volcanic activity. The funds will be distributed through the Hawai‘i Island Volcano Recovery Fund at the Hawai‘i Community Foundation (HCF), which supports critical areas of need, including assistance with shelter for displaced residents. “Paradise Helicopters’ generous gift will support efforts that provide housing, case management, legal and other essential services for those impacted by the Kīlauea Volcano eruption,” said Diane Chadwick, HCF’s Director of Community Philanthropy on the Island of Hawai‘i. “We are grateful for the many individuals and companies that have stepped up to care for these communities while they recover.” In early May, Paradise launched several initiatives to assist with Island of Hawai‘i relief and response. For several months, $10 per seat on all directly booked tours originating from Hilo International Airport, and $20 per seat on tours departing from Kona International Airport, were set aside for relief efforts. Paradise has also continued to offer residents discounted flights and a complimentary dayof seat on flights from Hilo to help them survey their home or property, and is flying news media over the area to provide accurate coverage. The company has donated time and equipment to rescue operations, including the evacuation of people and animals.
“These efforts are part of our longstanding Ho‘omaluo Program, which has supported environmental and community stewardship since our founding more than 20 years ago,” said Calvin Dorn, CEO of Paradise Helicopters. “We are proud to support these communities and work in coordination with HCF and other agencies to offer relief.” Discounted and media flights may be booked by calling (808) 961-6810. Flights are limited and are subject to change; proof of area residency is required for discount. For all other tours, visit ParadiseCopters.com. About Paradise Helicopters Founded in 1997, Paradise Helicopters is a leading provider of unique air tours and bespoke charters in Hawai‘i. The award-winning company is widely recognized for its industry-leading safety practices and exclusive tours. A wide selection of tours are offered from Kapolei West O‘ahu and Turtle Bay Resort on O’ahu, through the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, and from Hilo and Kona on the Island of Hawai‘i; custom charters are available statewide; and specialty flights on an authentic WWII aircraft are available through Pearl Harbor Warbirds on O’ahu. Visit paradisecopters.com or pearlharborwarbirds.com. About Hawai‘i Community Foundation With over 100 years of community service, the Hawai‘i Community Foundation (HCF) is the leading philanthropic institution in the state. HCF is a steward of more than 850 funds, including more than 250 scholarship funds, created by donors who desire to transform lives and improve communities. In 2017, HCF distributed more than $59 million in grants and contracts statewide, including more than $6 million in scholarships. HCF also serves as a resource on community issues and trends in the nonprofit sector. Visit hawaiicommunityfoundation.org.