Monty Richards Award Given to Kona Community Hospital

Bank of Hawaii has selected the Kona Hospital Foundation as one of the recipients of its Monty Richards Hawaii Island Community Award.

The presentation of the $10,000 check was made at Kahua Ranch on Thursday.

The foundation has earmarked the award toward purchase of a nephroscope and resectoscope, types of urologic equipment, for the operating rooms at Kona Community Hospital.

“The equipment will make it possible for the KCH surgical team to perform a broader range of urologic surgeries, requiring less off-island travel for certain urologic conditions,” said Jim Higgins, chairman of the Kona Hospital Foundation.

The bank established the award in 2008 in honor of Herbert “Monty” Montague Richards Jr., a North Kohala rancher, dedicated Big Island community leader and former longtime board director for Bank of Hawaii.

Award selection is based on exemplary fulfillment of the organization’s mission, leadership demonstrated by the organization’s executive director and board and the organization’s engagement in community development, education or human services.

Additional consideration is given to organizations that also focus on community development through financial education programs.

The non-profit Kona Hospital Foundation was created in 1984 to accept gifts and solicit donations for new medical technology, expanded services and enhanced facilities for Kona Community Hospital.

Since its inception, the foundation has donated more than $5 million towards numerous hospital projects to benefit West Hawaii residents and visitors.