Stay with Impact: Oasis Hotel Waikiki
- Kayla Burkholder
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
In the vibrant heart of Waikiki, the Oasis Hotel Waikiki is more than a tropical getaway—it’s a hub of heartfelt hospitality and community investment.
This year, the property’s commitment to purpose-driven procurement earned it a nomination for Springboard Hospitality’s Impact Award for generating over 50 employment hours for individuals overcoming barriers to work through intentional purchases made on the Procure Impact Marketplace.
But for General Manager Kathy Gunderson, the recognition is simply a reflection of what they aim to do every day: “We focus on creating meaningful connections rather than just transactions,” she shares. Kathy adds: “...Our hotel offers a distinctive blend of local charm and urban convenience... What sets us apart is our genuine aloha spirit, reflected in personalized guest service, local partnerships, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that feels like home.”
"We focus on creating meaningful connections rather than just transactions...What sets us apart is our genuine aloha spirit, reflected in personalized guest service, local partnerships, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that feels like home."
-Kathy Gunderson, General Manager
A Local Touch with Lasting Impact
One of the hotel’s most memorable touches comes in the form of a small, delicious welcome. Guests checking in are greeted with a locally made cookie from Touch A Heart, a Honolulu-based nonprofit bakery dedicated to empowering individuals with barriers to employment.
“Partnering with a local bakery not only supports our community, but also gives guests a warm, authentic welcome that reflects the spirit of Hawaii,” explains Kathy. “It’s a simple gesture that leaves a lasting impression—guests often comment on how special and personal it feels.”
Founded in 2004, Touch A Heart has evolved from providing meals to people facing homelessness into a robust foodservice training program. Today, the organization partners with underutilized commercial kitchens across the island to conduct vocational training and apprenticeships for individuals who have experienced incarceration, homelessness, or substance abuse.
Every cookie served at Oasis Hotel Waikiki represents a second chance—and a step toward a brighter future.
Purposeful Procurement, Seamless Service
For Oasis Hotel Waikiki, impact is integrated into every corner of the guest experience. From the local cookies at the front desk to thoughtfully selected operational tools, the team curates products that align with their values of efficiency, authenticity, and community.
“We intentionally selected products that enhance operational efficiency while also supporting local businesses whenever possible,” says Kathy. “By partnering with local vendors and service providers, we not only invest back into our community but also ensure faster support and culturally relevant offerings.”
This balance of guest convenience, cultural relevance, and social impact has helped the property foster a loyal guest base who return not just for the location, but for the feeling of connection.
From Cookies to Careers: A Model for Hospitality with Heart
By pairing authentic guest experiences with products that uplift underserved communities, Oasis Hotel Waikiki is redefining what hospitality looks like in Hawaii. Their partnership with local bakery, Touch A Heart, shows that every purchase has the power to open doors—for guests and for the people behind the products.
But Oasis Hotel Waikiki’s path to impact wasn’t paved with grand gestures—it began with thoughtful, daily decisions.
For hoteliers looking for a place to start, Kathy advises: “Start with what your guests experience first—efficiency, friendliness, and reliability. Whenever possible, choose vendors who understand your local culture and values. Think beyond cost—look at service, sustainability, and guest impact. Small, thoughtful choices in your daily operations can leave a lasting impression.”
When hoteliers choose to source with intention, they don’t just elevate their offerings—they elevate lives.