The Duel: Grand Hyatt Kauai vs. Sheraton Kauai »»

Doug Sears, general manager of the Grand Hyatt Kauai in Poipu and Angela Vento, general manager of neighboring property Sheraton Kauai Resort engaged in some friendly competition to benefit Kauai United Way. ?We felt, in these hard economic times, that we should try to do something extra for the Kauai United Way Campaign, because the need is so great right now,? Sears said. ?And we found a fun way to do it.? They agreed that the GM that improved Kauai United Way giving at his or her property would prepare lunch for the other.

Angela Vento and Doug Sears, GM's of the Sheraton Kauai Resort and Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Both properties had outstanding results. Hyatt employee participation increased 129% with donations going up 107%. Sheraton employee participation increased a whopping 169% with donations going up 130%. The improvements were so staggering, on both sides, Sears and Vento agreed to cook for each other.

The meal went off without a hitch at the Sheraton, but a blown circuit at the Hyatt left the cooking area without light. ?I didn?t know I?d be cooking in the dark,? Vento said. ?That certainly put my talents to the test. Our team had fun.? The duo hope to renew the competition and perhaps expand it next year. ?I can?t wait until next year,? Sears said.

?We?re so grateful people are going the extra mile like Doug and Angela, Peter Merriman and Personal Financial Consultants,? said Scott Giarman, executive director of Kauai United Way. ?But the sad fact is that lots of people who normally give have lost their jobs and now can?t. Our 2009 Campaign is stalled at 83% of goal, which is pretty darn good in this environment. Unfortunately, it?s not enough. We are looking for four well-to-do people who love Kauai to come forward with $10,000 checks to match a challenge grant from an anonymous donor.?

Kauai United Way supports 27 Participating Agencies which provide dozens of social service programs that benefit tens of thousands of Kauai people annually, save countless lives and make life on Kauai better for all.