Brian Sato to Walk around Maui

Makawao resident Brian Sato will walk 165 miles around the island of Maui for the fourth time to raise funds and awareness for a local nonprofit.

This time, the 64-year-old avid hiker, who has endured blistering sunburns and a separated toenail and braved heavy rains in a passing hurricane during previous walks, will raise funds for his employer, The Maui Farm.

The Makawao-based organization founded in 1985 provides transitional housing and farm-based, family-centered programs that teach essential life skills for self-sufficient living, according to its website.

Sato said he wasn’t planning on another hike, but Ali Cotsoradis, a friend who wasn’t able to join him on a previous walk, “talked me into it.” Sato and Cotsoradis are planning their journey for April 14 to 25.

They aim to raise $10,000 to support Maui Farm’s programs and services for families.

“The Maui Farm is a safe haven for women and their children,” said Sato, the nonprofit’s facilities maintenance specialist. “People of all ages discover the joys of gardening, meeting and caring for farm-friendly animals and learning about how to care of themselves. Here they can overcome past hardships and other traumatizing situations. Here they can find support and empowerment.”

Maui Farm Executive Director Kandice Johns said she was “absolutely just astounded” and has “so much gratitude” for Sato, who is known as the “beloved uncle” and sometimes turns his work into teachable moments with the children. Story from Maui News