YWCA to Honor 2 Community Leaders as ‘Remarkable People’

Two people will be honored later this month for their contributions to the Big Island community.

YWCA of Hawai‘i Island named restaurateur Debra Ching Maiava and the late Dave De Luz Sr. as its 2022 Remarkable People. Ching Maiava and De Luz will be honored during the organization’s 11th annual Remarkable People Luncheon from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. July 28 in the University of Hawai’i at Hilo Campus Center dining room.

The event returns this year after a hiatus since 2019 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ching Maiava is the owner of restaurants Ken’s House of Pancakes and Ponds in Hilo. De Luz, who died in 2018 at the age of 86, was the owner of Big Island Toyota, De Luz Chevrolet, Kūkaʻiau Ranch and Hawai’i Beef Producers and was founder of Big Island Motors.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Debbie and the legacy of Dave De Luz Sr. for their monumental contributions to the local workplace and our community,” Kathleen McGilvray, CEO of YWCA of Hawai‘i Island, said in a press release. “We invite the community to join us in applauding these Remarkable People while supporting YWCA.”

All funds raised from the luncheon and an accompanying silent auction stay on the Big Island to ensure YWCA of Hawai‘i Island’s vital services are available to those who need them.

Tickets and table sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Naomi Uyemura at 808-930-5705 or via email at tuyemura@ywcahawaiiisland.org.

YWCA of Hawai‘i Island is headquartered at 145 Ululani St. in Hilo. For more information about the organization, call 808-935-7141 or click here.