King's Hawaiian Project Mahalo

King's Hawaiian Project Mahalo Charity Check Presentation

Last month, I was honored to attend a special event at the King's Hawaiian Headquarters. King's Hawaiian, maker of delicious bread and rolls, announced the winner of Project Mahalo. Consumers voted to select a charitable organization that best embodies the Hawaiian spirit of sharing, generosity and giving back.

Before becoming a librarian, I worked in non-profit organizations including Los Angeles-based food service provider Project Angel Food. I know firsthand the importance of corporate donations to keep the doors open and to continue valuable services. It was rewarding to see family-owned King's Hawaiian shared their profits with worthy organizations.

The four charities in Project Mahalo were: Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Family Caregiver Alliance, Meals On Wheels and One Warm Coat  Representatives from each charity spoke about the valuable work they do to help feed, clothe, mentor and care for others. The winner of the $25,000 donation was Meals on Wheels, and the other organizations received $10,000. I know they'll use the funds to continue their important work.

After the check presentation, we were treated to a delicious lunch and factory tour. I've been on the tour before, but jumped at the chance to go on it again. You can see the famous King's Hawaiian rolls in the oven! Did you know little rolls are placed in the oven-safe paper box, proofed and baked in the box? I saw it all happening.

Since we were going onto the factory floor, we had to wear awesome hairnets. Here are some of the charity representatives on tour with Dino (yellow hat - he's in charge of safety).

A buffet isn't complete without, of course, King's Hawaiian rolls! We enjoyed a delicious spread of Poke, Hawaiian Orange Chicken, Kahlua Pork, Potato Mac Salad, Ramen Salad and so much more.

King's went all out on the dessert section of the buffet too. They have a tasty King's Hawaiian Restaurant and Bakery in Torrance - have you been? The restaurant is very family friendly, and the bakery is awesome.

Be sure to check out the four charities and see how you can help them help others in your community:
Meals On Wheels 
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
Family Caregiver Alliance
One Warm Coat

Thank you very much King's Hawaiian for a fun day and a chance to learn about the great work by the four charities.

Mahalo,
- mary

P.S. If you are grilling for Father's Day this weekend, get some King's Hot Dog buns and Hamburger buns. These are sooooo good!

Disclosure: I received lunch and a gift bag from King's Hawaiian. Opinions are my own. Photo credits: Food related photos are mine, photos of tour and non-profits are by King's photographer.