Hawaiʻi Community Foundation Appoints Matt Beall to Board of Governors

The Hawaiʻi Community Foundation (HCF), one of the state’s leading philanthropic institutions, has announced the appointment of Matt Beall to its Board of Governors as of April 1, 2024. Matt will serve on the Finance & Audit Committee and Investment Subcommittee, which ensure the integrity of HCF’s finances and oversee the investment of its assets. This appointment reflects HCF’s commitment to leveraging experienced leadership to drive impactful initiatives across Hawaiʻi. 

The HCF Board of Governors responsibilities include setting policies, establishing organizational priorities and program strategies, and ensuring HCF’s financial stewardship and operations are conducted with integrity and accountability. The board is made up of a respected community of leaders representing Hawaiʻi’s rich diversity and dynamic interests. Their deep understanding of the state’s issues and needs provides invaluable leadership. Current board members continue the legacy of distinguished service established by their predecessors over HCF’s history of 105+ years.

HCF operates statewide, with offices and staff across Hawaiʻi. With a long-standing history, trusted expertise, and generous donor support, HCF addresses the root causes of Hawaiʻi’s most pressing challenges, such as expanding affordable housing access, conserving fresh water resources, and promoting the healthy development of young children. HCF’s wish is to create an equitable and vibrant Hawaiʻi where all island communities thrive, channeling its efforts through the CHANGE Framework, which focuses on six essential sectors impacting the well-being of the islands and its people. 

“I believe deeply in the power of philanthropy, not just for its community impact but also for the benefits to those who give,” says Matt Beall. “Seeing Hawaiʻi Life employees manage their donor-advised fund is inspiring. It builds their philanthropic muscle memory and motivates them to involve friends, family, and clients, creating a ripple effect of influence throughout Hawaiʻi.”

In 2023, HCF managed over 1,160 funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations committed to a better Hawaiʻi. They distributed more than $107 million in grants from these funds, contracts, and private foundations statewide, including scholarships supporting over 1,000 Hawaiʻi students.

HCF also oversees the Maui Strong Fund, which provides financial resources for the immediate and long-term recovery of those affected by the devastating Maui wildfires. HCF collaborates closely with state and county leaders, nonprofit organizations, and community members to address evolving priorities and unmet needs. The foundation does not collect a fee for donations to the Maui Strong Fund and reinvests any investment earnings back into the fund’s purpose. As of May 24, 2024, the Maui Strong Fund has received $193,004,854 in donations.