Giving
Variety School relies on the support of the community, alumni, parents, faculty, and friends to provide a specialized education to children with learning differences who need it most.
With your help, we can make a difference that lasts a lifetime, because every child matters.
Dare to Dream Gala, March 7th, 2026
Thank you for an evening filled with gratitude, joy, and powerful reminders of what is possible when a community comes together in support of students with special needs.
Held at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai’i, the celebration welcomed 140 guests for a lively night honoring the promise, creativity, and resilience of Variety School’s students. From the moment attendees arrived, the room buzzed with energy and shared purpose.
The evening was expertly guided by emcee Devon Nekoba, who helped set a warm and celebratory tone while highlighting the meaningful impact that generous donors make in the lives of the school’s students.
Guests enjoyed a dynamic program featuring both cultural performances and student talent. A powerful taiko performance captivated the audience, while Variety School students delighted the crowd with a heartfelt ukulele performance that showcased their confidence and growth. Live music from local artists Nick La’a and Zack Uchima kept the atmosphere festive and uplifting.
Throughout the night, attendees enthusiastically participated in exciting raffles, adding to the fun while supporting programs that help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Most importantly, the evening highlighted the extraordinary generosity of the Variety School ‘ohana. The support of donors, sponsors, and community partners help create transformative opportunities that provide specialized education, therapies, and resources that empower our students to reach their full potential.
Because of this community’s belief in their dreams, Variety School students are gaining the skills, confidence, and independence they need to build bright futures.
Mahalo to everyone who attended, contributed, and celebrated with us. Your generosity makes an immeasurable difference.
Be sure to explore the photo gallery and watch highlights from the evening in the video recap below.
A letter from recent Variety School Alumni: Nalu Young-Kingsbury
Dear Ms. Jolene, Mr. Yee, Variety School teachers and therapists,
I would like to share some exciting news and to express my deepest gratitude for everything you did for me during my time at Variety School.
I am currently preparing to graduate from Exceptional Minds a college based in California. As I look back on my journey towards becoming a college graduate, I realize that I would not be in this position without all of you.
Thank you for Believing in my potential: Your patience and dedication during my GED prep gave me the academic confidence to pursue my dream college. Thank you for Teaching me independance: The hours spent on speech, coordination, and fine motor skills gavce me the physical and social tools I use every day to navigate the world.
Thank you for Giving me a team: Representing Variety School in cross-country remains one of my proudest memories. It taught me that I could compete and succeed alongside students from other public and private schools.
You taught me that being on the spectrum doesn’t mean I have less to offer; it just means I navigate the world differently. Because of your support, I feel safe, confident, and ready for my next chapter. I’ll be moving to California to complete my last semester and begin working in a special effects studio.
Thank you for changing my life.