MEDIA RELEASE

A kick off event for The Guy Toyama Memorial Fund is set for 4-7 p.m. Friday, April 26, 2013 at the NELHA Gateway Center. The event includes entertainment, pupus and refreshments.

The fund seeks to advance innovation and entrepreneurship in areas of environmentally sound practices in Hawaii and Japan.

The fund will provide scholarships for students interested in sustainability and entrepreneurship. In addition, the fund will provide grants for non-profit projects focused on innovation and sustainability integration.

The fund will create positive outcomes for future generations through disciplines such as renewable energy, local food production, and waste reduction.

Guy Toyama, a Hawaii visionary and champion of sustainable business and renewable energy, died in November 2012. In honor of his longstanding commitment to improving the relationship between people and the islands, his never-ending spirit of kuleana will be carried on through the Guy Toyama Memorial Fund.

“All who knew Guy were touched by his enthusiasm for life and his commitment to Hawaii and its future,” Mayor Billy Kenoi said. “The Guy Toyama Memorial Fund will perpetuate his dream of sustainability and foster the positive changes he sought for generations to come.”

Toyama’s joyful exuberance and his exceptional knowledge of how to live lightly on the planet were a source of inspiration to many. This memorial fund, made possible by donations from friends, family, and businesses, furthers Toyama’s global vision for a better future.

“Guy’s entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with his commitment to community leadership and his infectious laugh and smile, brightened the lives of all around him and so, his legacy continues, said Mark McGuffie, managing director of Enterprise Honolulu.

Michael Kramer, managing partner of Natural Investments LLC, added “we were privileged to have Guy as a leader and visionary, but for a very short time. Through the Guy Toyama Memorial Fund we have a unique opportunity to make lasting and positive change here in Hawaii and in Japan.”

Local chefs David Paul and Peter Merriman are supporting the event and will prepare a light menu of pupus and refreshments. Numerous local establishments are supplying food, entertainment, and various products and supplies.

The fund will support opportunities that further Toyama’s vision for a better future. Scholarships for students studying sustainability, the healing arts, or entrepreneurship would align perfectly with several of Toyama’s passions.

Grants for exchange programs between students in Hawaii and Japan also are under consideration.

Friends of the Future, a Hawaii 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is accepting contributions to the fund.

Checks may be made payable to Friends of the Future, include “Guy Toyama Memorial Fund” in the memo line, and be mailed to Friends of the Future, PO Box 2655, Kamuela, HI 96743.

Visit www.fofhawaii.org and click on the DONATE link to contribute online using PayPal or a credit card. Include “Guy Toyama Memorial Fund” in the “note to seller” field when you review the PayPal transaction.

— Find out more:
http://guytoyamafund.org