Makana Pono awardee Carly R. selects LGBTQ+ sports league
Posted on October 7, 2022
Makana Pono: Employee Giving Program
Carly R.
Director of Palliative Care
Organization: Hawaii Gay Flag Football League
Carly R. (left) presents her award to the HGFFL.
Founded in 2013, the nonprofit organization that promotes diversity in sports and aims to create a safe and inclusive environment where people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can participate in a competitie and friendly team sport, develop a social support system, and build lifelong friendships.
Carly R., director of palliative care for Islands Hospice, has been with our organization for four years and now oversees non-hospice programs including palliative care, supportive care and transitional care.
Outside of work, Carly plays flag football with the Hawaii Gay Flag Football League (HIGFFL), the first LGBTQ+ sports league in Hawaii. As our September Makana Pono awardee, Carly selected HIGFFL to receive the $5,000 donation.
Founded in 2013, the nonprofit organization promotes diversity in sports and aims to create a safe and inclusive environment where people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can participate in a competitive and friendly team sport, develop a social support system, and build lifelong friendships. In addition to providing fun sporting events, HIGFFL partners with local nonprofits to serve the community.
The community league brings teams together each week to learn and play flag football. They also work to create a positive environment by hosting additional inclusive social and community events. “I chose HIGFFL because I feel strongly about their mission and the community that they foster through sports,” explained Carly. “I personally have benefited as a participant in the league and am so grateful for the positive, safe and non-judgmental space provided, all while playing a really fun sport!”
Keeping active on the field, in addition to flag football, Carly also participates in the LGBTQ+ Kickball and Volleyball Leagues.
“I thank you for the incredible opportunity to win this award and donate to a meaningful cause. I am truly grateful for our amazing Islands Hospice team,” said Carly.
Outside of work, Carly plays flag football with the Hawaii Gay Flag Football League (HIGFFL), the first LGBTQ+ sports league in Hawaii. As our September Makana Pono awardee, Carly selected HIGFFL to receive the $5,000 donation.
Founded in 2013, the nonprofit organization promotes diversity in sports and aims to create a safe and inclusive environment where people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can participate in a competitive and friendly team sport, develop a social support system, and build lifelong friendships. In addition to providing fun sporting events, HIGFFL partners with local nonprofits to serve the community.
The community league brings teams together each week to learn and play flag football. They also work to create a positive environment by hosting additional inclusive social and community events. “I chose HIGFFL because I feel strongly about their mission and the community that they foster through sports,” explained Carly. “I personally have benefited as a participant in the league and am so grateful for the positive, safe and non-judgmental space provided, all while playing a really fun sport!”
Keeping active on the field, in addition to flag football, Carly also participates in the LGBTQ+ Kickball and Volleyball Leagues.
“I thank you for the incredible opportunity to win this award and donate to a meaningful cause. I am truly grateful for our amazing Islands Hospice team,” said Carly.