Aloha family and friends,

For over 40 years, my dad, Eric Arakawa, has dedicated his life to a craft that has blessed so many lives around the world and yet has always walked with the humility of a steward, giving the glory to God for the work he’s been entrusted with. Because he is the first to offer help and the very last to ask for it - especially when he knows so many others in our community are suffering - I am starting this fundraiser on his and his team’s behalf.

The historic storm that hit our islands on March 20th is unlike anything our community has ever experienced before. Over 5 inches of floodwater surged through my dad's surfboard factory, leaving extensive damage throughout. Finished surfboards are fortunately waterproof, but the many unfinished boards and foam blanks in the shop were all damaged by the muddy water, as well as equipment, tools, furniture, and all the drywall interior. They have been unable to test the CNC machine but it looks to be still functional. Because flooding was never a concern at this location, the business is facing this alone without the safety net of flood insurance.

As of right now, the factory is at a standstill. These funds will go directly towards new drywall, flood remediation, loss of materials, essential equipment, and most importantly, supporting his dedicated employees and their families who are out of work for the next several weeks during an already difficult season.

Our hearts are so heavy for every family and business in Hawai'i that have been affected by this storm. We feel incredibly blessed that the factory is still standing, especially when so many have lost everything.

We know there is a long road ahead for all of Hawai'i, and we are humbled by the outpouring of love we have already seen. Whether through prayer, supplying materials, or a contribution to this fund, I am so deeply grateful for all of the ways you’ve shown up for my family and this community that we love.

With aloha,

Mariko Arakawa-Hoffbeck and the Arakawa Surfboards Family