COLUMBUS, Ohio — Communities are stepping up to help the victims affected by the Maui wildfires. As the death toll climbs, it is one of the deadliest wildfires in U.S. history and the worst natural disaster to hit Hawaii.

Meanwhile, over 4,400 miles away, a dance group here in Ohio is putting together a fundraiser to help.


What You Need To Know

  • Mahana Productions dance group is putting together a Maui fundraiser to help people affected by the Maui wildfires

  • Naomi Ritter is one of the dancers with ties to Hawaii

  • All the proceeds from their next performance will help those who lost their home, clothes, and jobs in the fires

  • Their next performance is Wednesday, Aug. 30 at the Yokoso Center in Columbus

Naomi Ritter joined the Mahana Polynesian dance group in 2017.

"The movement is beautiful and gorgeous, and it just makes you happy,” said Ritter.

She's a Hawaii native, so this group is more her speed.

"I did other different kinds of dance before, but this is where my heart is,” said Ritter.

Mahana Productions performed in many festivals and events before, but the performance they're rehearing for this time feels different. All the proceeds from their next one will be donated to help people affected by the fires in Maui.

For Ritter, helping others is fitting.

"Well, helping others, that's what I do for a living. I'm actually a nurse, so that's always what I've wanted to do,” said Ritter.

But this kind of service pulls at her heartstrings especially.

"I feel like everybody sees Hawaii as this gorgeous, beautiful place," said Ritter, but what makes Hawaii is the people, and they have been devastated by the wildfires. They've lost so much. So, anything we can do to give back, we will do.”

As a Hawaii native, she also has family and friends over there, and some extended family in Maui. So, the money they're raising will help the victims who lost their homes, jobs, and clothes.

"We're here with you, our love and aloha to you,” said Ritter. “Anything you need that we can give, we will give you just like you will do for anyone else."

Their next performance is Wednesday, Aug. 30 at the Yokoso Center in Columbus. If you'd like to help support, go here to get tickets in advance. You could also go here to help donate if you can’t make it.