Hawai‘i Community Lending is rolling out the red carpet at Bishop Museum for its second annual Hui Waiwai gala on Jan. 22, 2026, from 5 to 8 p.m., uniting funders, borrowers and partners to toast the nonprofit's 2025 wins. The evening is set to drum up funding for programs that will help house local and Native Hawaiian families in 2026 while laying out the organization’s game plan for the coming year.
This year’s Hui Waiwai theme is “Mōhala i ka wai ka maka o ka pua - Unfolded by the water are the faces of the flowers.” According to Hawai‘i Community Lending, guests can expect an island-style dinner created by local chefs, a cocktail reception and live music on the Bishop Museum grounds. The night is designed to honor families, borrowers and partners who have pushed through barriers to homeownership.
What to expect
The program will include live music by local musician Nick La‘a, a keynote speech from Hawai‘i County Mayor Kimo Alameda and the reveal of HCL’s 2025 Impact Investor of the Year, as reported by Maui Now. HCL Chief Executive Officer Jeff Gilbreath is also slated to walk attendees through the organization’s progress and his read on the state’s broader housing trajectory.
Sponsorships and tickets
Tickets and sponsorships are already on sale. HCL lists a Lehua Sponsorship at $100 for an individual ticket and a Pōmaikaʻi Sponsorship at $5,000, which comes with a table for 10, logo placement and recognition. According to Hawai‘i Community Lending, online purchases will include transaction fees, and 100% of net proceeds will support 2026 housing programs for local and Native Hawaiian families. Organizers are urging guests and sponsors to register early to lock in seating.
Why this fundraiser matters
HCL offers affordable loans, targeted grants, technical assistance and hands-on guidance aimed at helping local families and Native Hawaiians build, buy and save homes, making the gala feel like more than just another fancy night out. Organizers cast Hui Waiwai as a way to rally partners, investors and community figures around long-term housing stability, as reported by Maui Now.
The event blends island hospitality with a brass-tacks push to turn goodwill into real housing outcomes. With limited seats, organizers say they are hoping this one night at Bishop Museum will translate into measurable support for the families HCL serves.
