Four fortunate organizations were selected as beneficiaries of the 6th Annual Chocolate Festival, each receiving a monetary donation to support their various efforts.

Presented by the Kona Cacao Association, the Big Island Chocolate Festival (BICF) is a fundraiser that featured 800 guests experiencing 7 events over 2 days (April 28 & 29, 2017). The 2017 beneficiaries were:

American Culinary Federation, Kona Kohala Chefs Association: The ACF Kona Kohala Chefs Association members are industry leaders committed to culinary enrichments through professional development and education in our community. There are more than 50 chapter members, plus a College Junior Chef Chapter and a High School Junior Chef Chapter. The group includes food service professionals, vendors and growers. The ACF Kona Kohala Chefs Association is a part of the American Culinary Federation.

Kona Dance & Performing Arts: The mission Kona Dance & Performing Arts is Striving to provide high quality instruction and education in dance and performing arts to the local youth and the Big Island community. Classes range from ballet to Hip-Hop, and feature adult dance classes as well.

Kona Pacific Charter Schools: The Kona Pacific Charter Schools weaves three key strands into its educational programs: Waldorf Inspired Education, Hawaiian Culture, Sustainable Agriculture, curriculum offers a holistic, hands-on, project-based education inspired by Waldorf education, promoting student achievement in language arts, math, science, visual arts, foreign languages, musical training and movement.

Waimea Country School’s Na Keiki Aloha ‘Aina: Waimea Country School is part of the Hawaii Island School Garden Network, whose mission it is to “help island schools build gardening and agricultural programs that will significantly contribute to the consumption of locally produced food.” The school garden is an outdoor classroom, fostering students’ appreciation of the natural world. Students spend time in the garden/yard daily with gardening projects integrated into the curriculum, when possible.