Hilton Grand Vacations’ Contract Services Hawaii department has made a significant impact on its community since joining the Adopt A Family campaign in 2016. This annual initiative not only supports families in need but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among employees. Under the leadership of Arzel Ellazar, who became a supervisor that same year, the department has embraced its mission to extend hospitality beyond the workplace.
Ellazar, who grew up in a low-income family in Kalihi, Honolulu, understands the importance of community support. Reflecting on his childhood, he stated, “I came from a very frugal house. Things were tight.” His experiences motivated him to encourage his team to contribute to the community, allowing them to grow not just as professionals but also as compassionate individuals. “I wanted to show them that outside of just the work they do, they should look around and see how else we can help,” he said.
The Adopt A Family campaign, organized by Helping Hands Hawaii, allows donors to “adopt” families and fulfill their wish lists during the holiday season. Participants can choose to shop for specific items or donate online to support families who have not yet been matched with a donor. This initiative is part of the Good Neighbor Fund holiday drive, in collaboration with the Honolulu Star-Advertiser and First Hawaiian Bank.
The department adopted two families this year, as Traci Lum, a trainer within Hilton Grand Vacations, shared. One family consists of a grandmother and her grandson, with the grandmother selflessly requesting items solely for her grandson. Lum emphasized the importance of recognizing the grandmother’s efforts, stating, “Obviously we are going to get her something so she can be appreciated and recognized too.”
The second family includes a mother facing health challenges who requested cleaning supplies to maintain her home. Lum noted, “We did get quite a few people to participate this year,” pointing out the abundance of donated items filling her cubicle. She believes that participating in the campaign helps donors gain perspective on their own lives, fostering gratitude for everyday necessities. “It’s very humbling. It really opens your mind and your eyes,” she added.
Ellazar, now serving as contracts manager, observes the profound effect of the campaign on team dynamics. “You start to hear the more quiet team members speak up more,” he noted, indicating that the initiative encourages engagement and deeper connections among staff. He believes that fostering a culture of giving is essential for personal development, saying, “It’s not just growth within the office; it’s growth outside.”
Despite the conclusion of the donor registration period for this year’s campaign, contributions can still be made online at helpinghandshawaii.org. There is no deadline for monetary donations, as funds will be allocated to support families in need in the upcoming holiday season. The spirit of giving continues to strengthen bonds within the Hilton Grand Vacations team while positively impacting the local community.
