Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset recognizes Vocational Service Awards Recipients
The Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset recently presented its 9th annual Vocational Service Awards, honoring an individual, a non-profit organization, and a local business. These recipients were chosen for exemplifying integrity and the highest standards of ethical conduct, which are integral to Rotary values. The awardees serve as models for ethical behavior both in the workplace and beyond. Presented annually, this recognition is given to three entities that provide exceptional service to the community and/or the club, and demonstrate the Rotary commitment to “Service Above Self”.
Denise “Neesey” Nussbaum received the Individual Vocational Service Award. In 2019, Neesey and several West Maui residents founded Aloha Ranch to support those experiencing homelessness. Working with local groups, volunteers, and donors, they provide essential services and support for families in need. Aloha Ranch received a Rotary District 5000 Foundation grant to supply household items for 450 families relocating to Ka Lai Ola community after the fires. Neesey serves as the primary organizer for essential items required by our community members in need.
Treecovery Hawaii Inc. received the Non-Profit Vocational Service Award for its work with the Army Corps in maintaining trees and improving soil in Lahaina and Kula burn zones. The group is partnering with organizations across Maui to plant and monitor new trees over the coming years, at no cost to the community. Treecovery also received a Rotary District 5000 Foundation Maui Fire Relief grant and will collaborate on a Rotary International Global grant to plant 2,500 trees in Lahaina and Kula over two years. Founder Duane Sparkman accepted the award.
Elly’s Formal Wear and Bridal received the Vocational Service Award for providing free tuxedo rentals at two Pop-Up Prom Stores, funded by the Rotary District 5000 Foundation Fires Relief Fund. The stores operated at Royal Lahaina Resort and Bungalows over two weekends in December 2024 and March 2025. Lahainaluna High School students booked appointments to select complimentary prom outfits, with a red carpet shopping experience.
The Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset is one of the nine Rotary Clubs located on Maui. Meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of each month. September meetings are being held at the portable classroom building at Sacred Hearts School, located in Ka`anapali at 2530 Keka’a Drive, Lahaina, 96761. Social time begins at 5:00 and attendees may bring their own food and beverages. The program is from 5:30-6:30 pm. To attend in person, email Club Service Chair Laura Stanton at lstanton127@outlook.com
PHOTO#1: (PC Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset)
Founder Duane Sparkman representing Treecovery Hawaii, Inc. received the Vocational Service Award for a Non-profit organization from Rotary District Governor Nancy Cabral, President Katy Shroder, and Assistant District Governor Al Weiland.
PHOTO#2: (PC Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset)
Founder Denise “Neesey” Nussbaum of Aloha Ranch. received the Vocational Service Award for an individual from Rotary District Governor Nancy Cabral, President Katy Shroder, and Assistant District Governor Al Weiland.
