Bayer Hawaii was selected for its unwavering support of MEO's diverse programs, including those benefiting Head Start preschoolers and their families, kupuna (elders), and individuals impacted by the devastating wildfires. Beyond financial assistance, the company was also recognized for the outstanding volunteerism of two of its employees: Kai Pelayo, who holds the Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce seat on MEO’s Board of Directors, and Dawn Bicoy, the Moloka‘i Filipino Community Center seat, on MEO’s Board of Directors.
 

"We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition from MEO," said Becky Ryan, Bayer Hawaii Capability Hub Co-Lead, Maui. "At Bayer Hawaii, we believe in investing in the well-being of our community. We are committed to supporting organizations like MEO that provide vital services and resources to those in need, especially during challenging times."

Since 2021, Bayer has donated nearly $60,000 to MEO, demonstrating its commitment to making a tangible difference in Maui. These contributions have supported a range of critical initiatives:
 

·       MEO Fundraising Gala: Supporting the agency's largest fundraising event.

·       Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Providing fresh produce for kupuna on the program's waitlist.

·       Maui Fires Relief Fund Transitional Housing Program: Donating $15,000 to provide up to nine months of rent and deposit assistance to families displaced by the wildfires.

·       Holiday Support for Head Start: Organizing special events with pumpkins, treats, and gift cards for Head Start children during Halloween and other holidays.

·       'Ohana Farmers Market Program: Funding a program modeled after the SFMNP to provide access to fresh produce for Head Start families.

Kai Pelayo's individual efforts were also highlighted, including his delivery of a truckload of pumpkins for Head Start children two years ago and his ongoing support for various MEO initiatives.

"I'm truly honored to be part of an organization like Bayer that genuinely invests in our community. Witnessing the direct impact of our contributions, whether it's delivering pumpkins to Head Start kids or helping families displaced by wildfires, is incredibly rewarding," said Kai Pelayo. “This recognition from MEO is a testament to the collective effort of everyone at Bayer Hawaii who is dedicated to making a difference."

The 39th annual MEO event was held at the Moana Ballroom this year, celebrating the organization's 60th anniversary. The event brought together nearly 100 government, business, and community leaders, MEO board members and staff, and notable attendees including Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen, and various council members.

The celebration also recognized Amanda Makaiwi,, daughter of a Bayer Molokai employee David Makaiwi, as a role model for volunteers on Molokai. Makaiwi, dedicates 20 hours a month to assisting with MEO’s Maui Food Bank distribution, using her personal vehicle to collect and deliver food to those in need. Her efforts also extend to hauling used bus tires to the recycling center, saving MEO $1,000 in fees.